he following question has two parts. First, answer part A. Then, answer part B.

Question

Part A:

Which statement best summarizes the central idea included in the speech?
A.
President Kennedy would like to solve the problems of world poverty, war, and class division during his term in office so that his political party can take the credit.

B.
President Kennedy would like all Americans to think about positive ways they can contribute to the country's goals of peace, strength, and concern with humanity.

C.
President Kennedy would like to present a country of strength that is not afraid to back down to conflict, is willing to enter a nuclear war if need be, and is willing to take over smaller countries if they threaten the United States.

D.
President Kennedy would like to present a new America—one that forgets the past and looks to the future generations and how they can make the United States more productive and economically successful.

Multiple Choice Question
Part B:

Which detail from the speech best supports your answer from part A?
A.
Let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans—born in this century, tempered by war, disciplined by a hard and bitter peace…

B.
We dare not tempt them with weakness. For only when our arms are sufficient beyond doubt can we be certain beyond doubt that they will never be employed.

C.
In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this responsibility—I welcome it.

D.
And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.
My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.

Answer 1

Part A:

The best summary of the central idea included in the speech is:

B. President Kennedy would like all Americans to think about positive ways they can contribute to the country's goals of peace, strength, and concern with humanity.

Part B:

The detail from the speech that best supports this answer is:

D. And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country. My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.