Significance of Names and Identity in Literature

Why is it significant to note that Meme Ortiz, and even his dog, have two names?

• It reflects their attempt to assimilate to American culture

• It shows their indecisiveness.

• It indicates their wealth.

• It signifies their popularity.

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

How does the vignette "Meme Ortiz" connect to Esperanza’s search for her own identity?

Tags

CCSS.RL.3.9

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

Consider everything we’ve learned about Esperanza, her feelings, her dreams, etc, so far, including her comment about being a red balloon and flying away. What then could falling after attempting to fly symbolize?

• Freedom and achieving her dream; failure or disappointment

• Happiness and joy; sadness or grief

• Strength and power; weakness or vulnerability

• Success and achievement; loss or defeat

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Why do you think Cisneros includes the story about Louie’s other cousin stealing the Cadillac? What does it show readers about the neighborhood, the people, their circumstances, etc?

• It highlights the economic struggles and desperation in the neighborhood.

• It shows the wealth and prosperity of the community.

• It demonstrates the law-abiding nature of the residents.

• It illustrates the peaceful and crime-free environment.

Tags

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RI.9-10.9

CCSS.RI.K.6

CCSS.RL.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.9-10.9

Who is Marin, and why is she significant to Esperanza and the other girls? How does she differ from Esperanza and her friends?

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.6

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

How is Marin similar or dissimilar to Esperanza?

• Marin dreams of a better life and leaving her current situation, similar to Esperanza.

• Marin dreams of becoming a famous singer, which is different from Esperanza's dream.

• Marin dreams of owning a big house, while Esperanza dreams of traveling the world.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

What phenomenon does Esperanza talk about in the vignette "Those Who Don't"?

• Esperanza becoming friends with new people

• The sound of the wind

• White people driving through the neighborhood

• The movement of the clouds

What do Esperanza's comments about being confused by outsiders' feelings and having felt the same way in other neighborhoods illustrate?

• Her sense of belonging and identity

• Her understanding of cultural differences

• Her feelings of alienation and displacement

• Her desire to explore new places

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Who is Mrs. Vargas, and why is she considered by many in the neighborhood to be a nuisance?

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RI.8.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

What is implied happened to Angel as a result of the neighborhood neglecting the children?

• Angel thrived and became successful

• Angel was unaffected by the neglect

• Angel suffered due to the neglect

• Angel moved to a different neighborhood

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.1

CCSS.RI.7.1

CCSS.RI.8.1

CCSS.RL.8.1

CCSS.RL.9-10.2