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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Once on the train, how does Mama manage to keep busy?

2. When Ramona discusses family choices with Hortensia and her family, where does Hortensia and her family make it known they are going?

3. Who is Sixto?

4. Who is Ramona?

5. What is Marta's attitude toward Esperanza?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is it about the migrant worker camp that is difficult for Esperanza?

2. When Esperanza sees Tio Luis in her father's office, why is Esperanza unhappy to see Tio Luis wearing Papa's belt buckle?

3. In addition to Esperanza's father's death, what else is awful about the way in which Esperanza wakes on on her birthday?

4. When all are planning to work in California, Esperanza says she will work, and everyone laughs. What tone did the author intend for this laugh?

5. In what way is the ruined rose garden a symbol?

6. At the time the fire is discovered, what might be the reason Esperanza is dreaming that a bear is waking her?

7. The harvest is a time when all farmers have their work rewarded, so it is easy to understand why it is their favorite time of year. Why does Esperanza imply that it is her favorite time of year?

8. What has Papa said about Tio Luis and Tio Marco that suggest that they are not men he admires?

9. In what way is the character of Tio Luis a stock character, in this case, the villain?

10. What is the purpose of Hortensia's recalling the story of the bandits in the house while they are hiding in the wagon?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the work ethic as evidenced in Esperanza Rising. What might the author be saying about the value of work?

Essay Topic 2

In Chapter 2 of Esperanza Rising, Esperanza is at a low point and her grandmother reminds her of a story she has told Esperanza many times, the myth of the phoenix rising out of its own ashes. What is inspirational about this myth and why is it appropriate that Abuelita, rather than any other character, be the one to refer to this myth at this time?

Essay Topic 3

Ramona, Esperanza's mother, undergoes a dramatic change in status. Discuss and evaluate Ramona as a role model for Esperanza.

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