Tan Lines
Why does Tan use quotation marks for "broken" and "fractured"?
To indicate that while others feel this way, she rejects that assessment of her mother's language. She does not see it as something "damaged" that needs to be "fixed."
In the sixth paragraph, Why does Putnam explain "longitudinal"?
He assumes he reader will not be familiar with some research related jargon.
What rhetorical device is primarily used in paragraph 10?
anecdote
The structure and diction of the first sentence of Putnam's work suggests what about him?
He is an experienced sociologist.
What work, published in 1989, is Tan's most famous work?
The Joy Luck Club
Why does Tan use the sentences "I am not a scholar of English or literature" and "I am a writer"?
Juxtaposes ideas - shows she is more about experiences and ideas that technical jargon or having language be technically perfect.
The use of the phrases "machers and schmoozers" and "bowling alone" suggest what tone that is different from the rest of the work?
playful and allusive
Who is the audience for Tan's work?
Those who have experiences like her experience and her mother's. Also those who marginalize "limited" English speakers in hopes they reconsider their treatment of others.
The overall style of Putnam's work is
semi-academic
Where did Putnam earn his MA and PhD?
Yale University
Why does Tan tell readers that her mother "read the Forbes report" and "listens to Wall Street Week"?
To show her mother is more intelligent than she is given credit for because of her "limited" English.
In the sentence that begins "Self-destruction is not merely a personal tragedy..." why does Putnam use repetition?
He repeats the word "rarer" to show the degree to which having connections can stave off self-destructive behaviors.
Tan's attitude toward her mother's English might be described how?
She was conflicted as a child (she loved her mother but felt ashamed) and it turns to respect as she grows and understands the value of her mother's language and communication.
What is the primary function of the reference to Emile Durkheim?
Helps to explain the origin of the study.
What book did Putnam write that focuses on social capital?
Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community (1995)
Why does Tan italicize "my" in the phrase "my perception"?
Emphasizes how deep other people's views of her mother impacted her.
Explain the relationship between paragraphs 11 and 12.
11 considers the "heartening" element of social connection and paragraph 12 contrasts this with the "sobering" element - that more are disconnected these days.
What is the tone in Tan's work?
Personal, intimate, reflective. Moments of a humorous tone.
The overall structure of Putnam's fourth paragraph is
abstract claims to concrete examples
What does Amy Tan's work generally focus on?
Mother-daughter relationships. She often depicts clashes with traditional Chinese culture and modern-day American customs.
Why does Tan use the phrase "different Englishes"?
She makes up a word, "Englishes," as a way to indicate that communication should not be about rigid rules. It also helps to show how she inhabits different communities.
In the eighth paragraph, the clause that begins "indeed, Rosetans were actually more..." advances what idea?
That this community is an exemplary example of social capital and connection, showing that connection has a profound influence if this group were more inclined to have other risk factors.
What is the rhetorical effect of juxtaposing the more lighthearted stockbroker anecdote with the more serious hospital one?
Emphasizes injustices in all areas of life.
In paragraphs 1-6, what are the benefits of social connectedness?
Reinforcement of healthy norms, improved medical services, decreased stress, and stimulated immune system
What prestigious award did Putnam win? What is it for?
the Skytte Prize for scholarly achievement in political science.