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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In Chapter 7, What is one thing that Esperanza does NOT say she will pray for?
(a) For Abuelita to be able to get her money from the bank.
(b) For a piece of coconut candy.
(c) To make friends.
(d) For Abuelita to get well.

2. Why do the doctors suggest that Esperanza discontinue her visits to Mama for a while?
(a) She is making Mama depressed.
(b) She may get what Mama has.
(c) She may bring contagious disease.
(d) She should be working to pay medical bills.

3. In Chapter 8, it is harvest time. What crop is the family harvesting?
(a) Grapes.
(b) Plums.
(c) Strawberries.
(d) Corn.

4. In the context of this story, what is a "jamaica?"
(a) A meat tortilla.
(b) A fiesta.
(c) A cigar.
(d) An omelette.

5. With someone sick, how do Alfonso and Juan make conditions better?
(a) They paint this person's room.
(b) They repair a ceiling in this person's room.
(c) They hang curtains for privacy.
(d) The clean this person's tiny window.

Short Answer Questions

1. On the morning after the strike, of whom does Esperanza ask a favor?

2. Early in Chapter 11, what is Esperanza's criticism of the strikers?

3. On Christmas day, what does Esperanza give her mother?

4. What honor is Isabel expecting to win at the celebration at her school in Chapter 12?

5. In Chapter 8, what kind of storm forces the workers back to the cabin?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the symbolic significance of the the shrine Alfonso and Miguel erect?

2. What is significant about Esperanza giving beans to the man at Marta's camp?

3. Comment on the image of communal life at this work camp once the work day is over that Ryan portrays in Chapter 7.

4. Chapter 10 is entitled Los Aguacates, the avocados. Why is this a meaningful title for this particular chapter?

5. In what way is Mama's illness a commentary on the working conditions of the migrant workers?

6. How does the short, intimate exchange Mama and Esperanza have after the jamaica effect Esperanza's mood?

7. Where are Esperanza's sympathies with regard to the strikers?

8. How is the act of Esperanza's gift of the porcelain doll symbolic?

9. Isabel wants to be the May Day Queen. When she tells Esperanza this, what is ironic about her reason for wanting to be this queen?

10. In Chapter 9, when Esperanza brings the blanket to the hospital, why do she and Mama cry?

(see the answer keys)

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