The Cadence of King

Worksheet Description

This worksheet centers around the famous “I Have a Dream” speech by Martin Luther King Jr., focusing on the literary device of repetition. Students are tasked with listening to or reading the speech and noting down instances of repetition they observe. Following this, they are prompted to reflect on the effect that this repetition has on the overall message and delivery of the speech. The exercise serves as an interactive way to engage with one of the most pivotal speeches in American history and to study its use of rhetorical devices.

The worksheet is intended to teach students the power of repetition in delivering a persuasive and memorable speech. It demonstrates how Martin Luther King Jr. used repetition to emphasize key points and to resonate with the hopes and desires of his audience. Students learn to analyze how repetition can evoke emotion and inspire action. Additionally, this activity highlights the importance of rhetoric in civil rights communication and its enduring impact on audiences.