Vocab Words
Quality or characteristic about a someone. (Examples: honest, creative, greedy, respectful)
Character Traits
Where does the House on Mango Street take place?
Chicago
Maria crossed her arms, rolled her eyes, and let out a long sigh when her mom called her name.
What is the author trying to "tell" the reader?
Maria was annoyed.
True of false: Symbols can have different meaning depending on the context of the story.
True
T/F: 'Friendship' is a theme
F: Friendship is a big idea
Language that appeals to the 5 senses (smell, touch, sight, sound, taste)
Imagery
Who are the two friends Esperanza "buys" for five dollars at the beginning of the book?
Rachel & Lucy
Daivelis hesitated at the dark doorway, gripping her flashlight tightly and listening for any sound inside.
What is the author trying to "tell" the reader?
She is scared.
What does the house in "The House on Mango Street" symbolize?
Shame & Poverty
At the end of the novel, Esperanza realizes she will leave Mango Street but promises to come back for those who cannot leave.
What theme is most strongly expressed here?
A. Loyalty to one’s community remains important even after leaving.
D. Independence means cutting ties with others.
C. Success can only happen outside of cities.
A. Loyalty to one’s community remains important even after leaving.
When something represents a deeper meaning.
Symbolism
What does 'chicana' mean?
A woman of Mexican descent who was born in the United States
In Gil's Furniture Bought & Sold it says, "The store is small and crowded with dusty things."
What is the author trying to "tell" the reader?
It's old and worn down.
Why do authors use symbolism in their stories?
To add deeper meaning
Alicia studies late at night even though she must wake up early to cook and take care of her father’s house.
What theme does Alicia’s determination reveal?
A. Hard work and education can create opportunities.
B. Family responsibilities should always come first.
C. Success depends mostly on luck.
D. School is less important than family traditions.
A. Hard work and education can create opportunities.
The main takeaway or message in a story.
Theme
What are character traits of Alicia (who sees mice)
- Responsible, Independent, Hardworking, Values Education
Esperanza describes her and Nenny's laughter as "a pile of dishes breaking."
What is Esperanza tyring to "tell" her reader?
It is loud/ chaotic/ uncontrollable
What do the windows in the book symbolize?
Feeling trapped
Esperanza says she wants “a house all my own…not a man’s house.”
What is the theme?
A. Wealth is the most important goal in life.
B. Independence is important for personal identity.
C. Family support is unnecessary.
D. Childhood dreams are unrealistic.
B. Independence is important for personal identity.
A short story with lots of imagery. It usually captures a specific mood or feeling.
Vignette
How do outsiders view Mango Street?
It's dangerous.
Cisneros describes her mother’s hair as smelling like this warm, baked bread.
What is trying trying to "tell" the reader about her mother's hair?
It's safe/ comforting
What do the trees in "Fours Skinny Trees" symbolize?
Hope in harsh conditions
Rafaela leans out the window while her husband locks her inside because he fears she will run away.
What theme is best developed by Rafaela’s situation?
A. People should avoid marriage.
B. Some relationships limit personal freedom.
C. Cities are unsafe places to live.
D. Beauty always leads to happiness.
B. Some relationships limit personal freedom.