Quindlen’s Quilt
In Quilt of a Country, Quindlen compares America to what symbol?
A patchwork quilt
In The Immigrant Contribution, Kennedy argues America’s strength lies in what?
Its diversity of immigrants
Both Quindlen and Kennedy see America as what kind of nation?
A nation shaped by differences
Which essay emphasizes symbols like “patchwork quilt”?
Quindlen’s essay (Quilt of a Country)
In Quindlen’s view, how do moments of national crisis reveal unity?
They show that Americans set aside differences and come together as one people.
What major event does Quindlen reference to show unity in diversity?
9/11 attacks
Kennedy compares America to what metaphorical phrase?
A “nation of nations”
What rhetorical device do both authors use in their essays?
Metaphor
Which essay emphasizes specific immigrant groups and contributions?
Kennedy’s essay (The Immigrant Contribution)
What does Kennedy mean when he says immigrants shaped America’s “national character”?
Immigrants brought values like hard work, courage, and faith that helped define American identity.
What does Quindlen mean by calling America a “mongrel nation”?
A country made of mixed parts (diverse backgrounds)
Which immigrant group does Kennedy specifically mention?
The Irish
What essential question do both essays address?
“What does it mean to be American?”
Which event does Quindlen use to prove Americans unite in crisis?9
9/11
Give one example from each author that shows diversity is a strength.
Quindlen compares America to a “quilt” of different cultures; Kennedy highlights groups like the Irish contributing traditions and hard work.
Why does Quindlen believe America still functions despite differences?
A shared idea of unity
What qualities does Kennedy say immigrants brought to America?
Tradition and discipline
Which best explains Quindlen’s central idea?
America is held together by unity despite diversity
What hardships did Kennedy note many immigrants faced?
Prejudice and hardship
Compare Quindlen and Kennedy’s perspectives on American identity.
Both believe diversity makes America strong. Quindlen stresses unity in times of crisis and uses metaphor; Kennedy stresses immigrant groups’ contributions to national character.
Which tone best describes Quindlen’s writing?
Proud and reflective
What did Kennedy say immigrants contributed most to?
America’s national character
Which best explains Kennedy’s central idea?
Immigration strengthens American identity
Why does Kennedy call America “a nation of nations”?
To stress that immigration creates unity
What does it mean to be American, based on both essays?
Being American means belonging to a diverse nation united by shared values, courage, and resilience despite differences.