Character Motivation and Behavior/Theme
Why did the narrator’s mom move them to the neighborhood?
Because the schools were good
How does the setting of the high-class mall contribute to the plot?
It makes the narrator more self-conscious and ashamed
What mood does the author create when describing the wealthy people at the mall?
intimidation and discomfort
What point of view is the story written in?
First person
What can you infer about the family’s financial situation?
They struggle financially but prioritize education
How does the Jennifer’s shame turn into respect?
She realizes her mom’s sacrifices made her life possible
What is the rising action of the story?
Jennifer feels uneasy and ashamed walking beside their mom
How does the narrator’s tone in “Mumbling I’d meet her at the clothes outlet around the corner, I hurried away to the bathroom” reflect their attitude?
Avoidant and ashamed
How does the point of view affect our understanding?
We only see the narrator’s thoughts and feelings
What does the Jennifer’s embarrassment suggest about their values at first?
She cares about appearances and fitting in
What universal idea about family does this story highlight?
That love and sacrifice are more powerful than appearances
What is the falling action of the story?
The narrator sees their mother as beautiful
How does the author’s use of contrast (wealthy shoppers vs. the mother) affect the mood?
It creates tension and embarrassment
How does the first-person point of view help reveal the narrator’s change in perspective about their mother?
It shows the narrator’s embarrassment and later appreciation of their mother
What can we infer about the mother’s love for Jennifer?
She sacrifices her own needs to provide for them
Why does the narrator avoid walking with their mom at the mall?
They felt ashamed of her appearance
Why is the moment when the mom offers the expensive sweater considered the climax?
Because it reveals the mom’s motivation and love, forcing the narrator to face their feelings
How does the mood shift by the end of the story?
From shame to admiration
Why is first person the best choice for this personal narrative?
It helps readers connect with the narrator’s shame and growth on a personal level
By the end, what can we infer about the narrator’s growth?
She begins to understand the true meaning of beauty and sacrifice
What does the mother show about her behavior when she offers the sweater?
She wants her child to feel happy and cared for
How does the resolution of the plot show the Jennifer's growth?
She refuses the sweater, showing she values her mom more than material possessions
How does the narrator’s tone shift between the beginning and end of the story?
From embarrassment to deep appreciation
How might the tone change if the story were told in third person omniscient?
It would sound more objective and less personal
When the narrator says, “I felt like I’d been dropped into a cold lake,” what does this reveal?
They were shocked by their mom’s sacrifices