Thank you for your purchase! I hope that you enjoy this product · PDF fileUna tormenta de polvo Mi gata Manana La Migra La Navidad Feliz Navidad Catedral Atole de chocolate Un cuento

Ashley Koss © Page 2

Thank you for your purchase! I hope that you enjoy this product and your and your students get some value out of using it. This book has been created entirely by me, so PLEASE let me know if there are any errors, spelling mistakes, or things that are unclear. You can email me directly at: [email protected]. I have made many changes to this over the past 8 years and hopefully they are useful ones! Tips:

You don’t have to use the ENTIRE packet. Some years I do, some I don’t. I tailor it for the needs of my students at that time. Most years, students get a different version of this packet within their book groups.

The discussion question and prediction pages are what I use most in groups. They can spark really wonderful conversations about the novel and help with student understanding.

The literal comprehension pages are really great for homework and especially for those kids who can get by with NOT reading the book. It keeps them accountable. I always use them with my lower level readers.

The answer key only includes answers for things that are definite answers. So no answers for discussion questions, predictions or vocabulary. I spend too much time answering questions if I think something is an acceptable answer or not.

This is aligned for 5th grade common core. I don’t teach other grades, so I’m not going to take time for the other grades at this time. Maybe in the future, but not right now.

mailto:[email protected]


5th Grade Common Core Alignment

RL.5.1. Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly

and when drawing inferences from the text.

RL.5.2. Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text, including how characters in a story or drama respond to challenges or how the speaker in a poem reflects upon a topic; summarize the text.

RL.5.3. Compare and contrast two or more characters, settings, or events in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text (e.g., how characters interact).

RL.5.6. Describe how a narrator’s or speaker’s point of view influences how events

are described

RL.5.10. By the end of the year, read and comprehend literature, including stories,

dramas, and poetry, at the high end of the grades 4–5 text complexity band independently and proficiently.

RF.5.3. Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding

words.

RF.5.4. Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.

SL.5.1. Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 5 topics and texts, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.

SL.5.4. Report on a topic or text or present an opinion, sequencing ideas logically

and using appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details to support main ideas or themes; speak clearly at an understandable pace.


1. Predict what the story might be about just by hearing the title. 2. Predict what the story might be about by looking at the cover illustration. Please answer the following questions in complete sentences.

1. Have you ever lost something that meant the world to you? How did it make you feel? If you haven’t, what do you imagine that would feel like?

2. How would you be able to take care of your family if your parents died or got really sick? 3. How easy or hard would it be for you to learn to live in a shack without running water or electricity? Describe why it would be easy or hard. 4. What types of feelings would you have if you were forced to move to a new country with no money and completely start over? 5. Write descriptions of what makes a person strong and courageous. Determine whether such strength is emotional, spiritual, or physical; and if you can acquire it or are you born with it?

Whole Book Prereading Questions


Spanish translation!

Esperanza Rising is full of Spanish words and phrases. Throughout the book, you come across them in italics, usually followed by the English translation. For example, on page 2 you find:

“Aguantate tantito y la fruta caera en tu mano,” he said. “Wait a little while and the fruit will fall into your hand. You must be patient, Esperanza.”

“Aguantate tantito y la fruta caera en tu mano” translates into “Wait a little while and the fruit will fall into your hand”. As you read, keep track of what the Spanish phrases mean in your English/Spanish dictionary!


Esperanza Rising


Las Uvas As you read Esperanza Rising, you will notice many Spanish words and phrases. Please fill in the chart as you read.

Spanish English

Cuidate los dedos watch your fingers

Vaqueros

campesinos

La cosecha

Ole

Fiesta

Quinceaneras

Las Mananitas

Algun dia

Mi nieta

El jefe

Companero

Mi reina

Un burro


Las Papayas

Las Guayabas

Spanish English

Un chal

La sala

Que paso, nina?

Mantilla

La calabaza

Mija

Raton

Rebozo

Carpetas

Mona

Gracias

De nada

Pepinos


Los Melones

Los Cebollas

Spanish English

Una palanca

Dulces

Buena suerte

Campesino

Arroyo

Jamaica

Entiendes

De veras?

Café

Chorizo

Un burrito de frijoles

La Cenicienta

Mi reina


Las Almendras

Los Ciruelas

Las Papas

Spanish English

Andale

Agua de Jamaica

Huelga

Rapido

Una tormenta de polvo

Mi gata

Manana

La Migra

La Navidad

Feliz Navidad

Catedral

Atole de chocolate

Un cuento de hadas


Los Esparragos

Los Aguacates

Spanish English

La patrona

Americana

La Migra

Gracias

Por favor

Que Buena suerte

Gracias


Vocabulary: Las Uvas Chose four of the following vocabulary words and create vocabulary maps.

scythe arbor acre premonition mesquite crochet

word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


Las Uvas (Grapes) Literal Comprehension Questions

1. Who is telling the story and what point of view is the novel

written in? _______________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

2. What is the name of the ranch?

____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

3. Who lives on the ranch? __________________________________

____________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

4. What fruit does the ranch grow? ___________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

5. What is Esperanza about to celebrate and why is it important?

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

6. What did Papa promise to Esperanza? Did he keep his promise? ____________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________


7. What happened to Esperanza that was “bad luck?” Who agreed with Esperanza

that is was bad luck? _______________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

8. Why was there resentment toward Mexican land owners? __________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

9. Abuelita is very wise. What does she do to keep her mind busy? What does she

mean by “There is no rose without thorns.” _________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

10. Who are Alfonso, Hortensia, and Miguel? ____________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

11. Who are Tio Luis and Tio Marco and what do they bring to Mama? _________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

12. What was brought back in the wagon? ______________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________


Las Uvas (Grapes) Discussion Questions

1. For most of this chapter, we learn all about how special Esperanza’s birthday is and how she celebrates every year. How do your birthday celebrations compare to Esperanza’s celebrations? Are there any special traditions that you look forward to every year like her?

2. After Esperanza pricks her finger on the rose thorn, Abuelita tells her, “No hay rosa sin espinas. There is no rose without thorns.” This is called a proverb, a short saying that states a general truth or that gives advice about how people should live. Many times a proverb is stated in a way that doesn’t literally mean what it says, such as, “The early bird catches the worm.” Esperanza understands what Abuelita is saying, that there is no life without difficulties. Using what you know about the novel so far, how do you think this saying foreshadows what is going to happen in the rest of the story?


3. When Esperanza was a little girl, she stated she was going to marry Miguel and they were very good friends. Now, she believes that they stand on opposite sides of a deep river that they can never cross. Telling this to Miguel has forever changed their relationship and Esperanza regrets telling him. Do you think Esperanza was right or wrong to tell this to Miguel? Why do you think Esperanza said they can never cross the river?

4. What are your feelings about Esperanza after finishing Las Uvas? Do you like or dislike her? Could you be friends with someone like her? Why or why not?


Predictions Page

Did your predictions come true? Describe how they did or did not: ________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

“I predict... because…”


Vocabulary: Las Papayas Find these words in Las Papayas and write the sentence that contains the word. Using context clues, write your own definition of each word.

a. melodic (p. 23): Sentence: Definition:

b. refined (p.26):

Sentence: Definition: c. crocheting (p. 29):

Sentence: Definition:

d. indignation (p. 30):


e. reputation (p.36):


f. pervaded (p. 38): Sentence: Definition:


Las Papayas (Papayas) Literal Comprehension Questions

Please answer the following questions with COMPLETE SENTENCES.

1. What did Esperanza dream about? Did it come true? Why or why not?___________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

2. Who is Senor Rodriguez? What did he bring

and for what occasion? ____________________

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

3. What was Esperanza’s favorite birthday

food? _____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

4. How long did Papa’s funeral last? _________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

5. Why didn’t Esperanza want to open her birthday presents? ______________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________


6. What present did Papa give Esperanza every year? _______________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

7. Why does Esperanza compare Tio Luis and Tio Marco to la calabaza? ____________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

8. Why does Esperanza get angry when she sees Tio Luis wearing Papa’s belt buckle?

How would you have felt? _________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

9. What does Tio Luis ask of Mama? ________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

10. What kinds of things could Tio Luis do to Mama because she refused to marry

him? ______________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

11. What did Mama get to keep after Papa died? What did Tio Luis and Tio Marco

take? _____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________


12. Why is everyone so worried about getting money? _______________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

13. What did Abuelita say about rosehips? ____________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

14. How is Papa different from other landowners in Mexico? _________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

15. Go back to your predictions for this chapter and write if they came true or not.

You may not know if they came true yet.


In the following activity, you will become a character in each situation and express yourself as if “you were there.” Pretend you are the character and tell what they see, smell, hear, touch, and feel. Activity: After Papa’s death, Mama finds herself in a tough situation. She has lost her husband, her land, and has refused a powerful man what he wants. Mama has shown strength by telling Tio Luis she will not marry him, but it has put her, her family, and her servants in danger. Pretend you are Mama after telling Tio Luis no. What happened and how are you feeling? Time: ___________ Date: ______________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________


Las Papayas (Papayas) Discussion Questions

1. Esperanza is understandably devastated by her father’s death. Senor Rodriguez brings the papayas for the big fiesta and Esperanza has to tell him about Papa’s death. Esperanza is described as feeling as if she “were in someone else’s body, watching a sad scene but unable to help.” Think of a time that you felt similar. How did your situation compare to what Esperanza is going through?

2. Mama and Abuelita insist that Esperanza open all of her birthday presents after Papa’s funeral. Describe how important you think the doll Papa picked out for Esperanza will be to her. Do you have something as important to you that you keep? Can you understand Esperanza’s feelings about the doll?


3. Tio Luis wants Mama to marry him, but not because he loves her. He wants more power and influence and Mama can help him. What do you think Tio Luis will do after Mama refuses him again? Do you think he has the right to make things ‘difficult’ for Mama? Why or why not?

4. Miguel tells Esperanza that he and his parents are thinking about leaving the ranch and possibly moving to the United States. He says that they have the chance to be more than servants in the US. Esperanza is upset, but it doesn’t change how she acts towards Miguel. What does Miguel mean when he tells Esperanza that “in Mexico we stand on different sides of the river,”?


Predictions Page


___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________



Las Higos (Figs) Word Work

Read the following sentences. Decide if the italicized part of the sentence tells you where, when, or how. Circle the correct choice. 1. Papa left the ranch at dawn. where when how

2. Esperanza and Miguel played in the rose garden. where when how

3. The wagon returned later that night. where when how

4. Esperanza watched carefully from her room. where when how

5. In the morning, Esperanza wished it was a dream. where when how

6. Tio Luis and Marco arrived quickly. where when how

7. The family went to the funeral to remember Papa. where when how

8. Esperanza talked with Miguel one morning. where when how

9. The roses grew on the vines. where when how

10. The men worked in the field. where when how


Vocabulary: Las Higos Chose four of the following vocabulary words and create vocabulary maps.

waif valise venom whimpered cinder plentiful

word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


Las Higos (Figs) Literal Comprehension Questions

Please answer the following questions with COMPLETE SENTENCES. 1. What do you think Esperanza’s dream about the bear symbolizes? ____________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

2. Why was Mama shaking Esperanza awake? ___________________________________________

__________________________________________________

__________________________________________________

3. Why did Miguel have to go get Abuelita?

__________________________________________________

__________________________________________________

__________________________________________________

4. What did the fire burn? ______________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

5. What was saved from the fire? ______________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

6. What could Tio Luis and Tio Marco do if Mama refuses Tio Luis? _____________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________


7. What is Mama’s decision and how does it affect Esperanza? _________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

8. Why does Abuelita compare the girls to a phoenix? ___________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

9. Why does Abuelita go to the convent (a place where nuns live)? ______________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

10. What does Abuelita give to Esperanza and why does she give it to Esperanza? _______

________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

11. What are the figs used for that Senor Rodriguez brings over? _______________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

12. What did Esperanza take with her? ___________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

13. What “looked as if someone had taken a giant comb, dipped it in black paint, and

gently swirled it across a huge canvas?” ______________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________


Las Higos (Figs) Discussion Questions

1. How are your feelings towards Esperanza after the fire? Can you relate to all the sad things she has gone through in such a short time? Why or why not?

2. After the fire, Esperanza’s uncles visit the ranch. Do you think Tio Luis and Tio Marco felt sorry for Esperanza, Mama, and Abuelita? Why or why not?

3. When Tio Luis and Tio Marco visit, Tio Luis asks Mama again to marry him. Why did Mama ask for Esperanza’s forgiveness with her eyes? Do you think Mama made the right decision? Would you respect Mama if you were Esperanza?


4. After Abuelita leaves for the convent, the nuns leave a wooden box with Mama and Esperanza’s papers and clothes from the poor box. Why do you think Esperanza is so surprised that the clothes are for her and Mama? How do you think Esperanza will feel about having to wear the donated clothes?

5. Esperanza is leaving everything she has known to go to a new place with almost nothing. At the end of the chapter, it says Esperanza ‘could see nothing behind her but a trail of splattered figs she had resentfully smashed beneath her feet.’ Does Esperanza have the right to be so angry? Would you be more angry or sad in her situation? Explain.


Predictions Page


___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________



Vocabulary: Las Guayabas Find these words in Las Guayabas and write the sentence that contains the word. Using context clues, write your own definition of each word.

a. reluctantly (p. 59): Sentence: Definition:

b. renegades (p.61):

Sentence: Definition: c. blustery (p. 64)


d. shawl (p. 65)


e. peasants (p. 66):


f undulating (p. 68): Sentence: Definition:


Las Guayabas (Guavas) Literal Comprehension Questions


1. Why was it unsafe for the women to ride in

the front of the wagon? ______________________

________________________________________________

________________________________________________

________________________________________________

2. What does Hortensia tell Esperanza to make

her feel better? ______________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

3. What was Miguel’s reward from Papa? What does Papa buy for Esperanza and

Miguel? ___________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

4. Describe the train car Esperanza rides in on her way to the United States. _______

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

5. What does the peasant girl want from Esperanza? What is Mama’s reaction to

Esperanza’s attitude? _____________________________________________________________


____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

6. What do you think Alfonso and Miguel are hiding? What do they keep doing with

the package? _____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

7. Why is Miguel excited to go to the United States? ________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

8. Who is the woman with the hens and why does Esperanza dislike her? ____________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

9. Go back and answers if your predictions came true or not on your predictions

page. Remember, they may not have happened yet!


Las Guayabas (Guavas) Sequencing Events

The events listed below are arranged in incorrect sequence. Write 1 in the blank before the event that happened first, 2 before the event that happened next, and so on. ________________ Mama and Esperanza get on a train car with peasants.

________________ Hortensia reassures Esperanza with a story.

________________ Mama makes a yarn doll for a little girl after Esperanza refuses

to let her play with Esperanza’s doll.

________________ Miguel tells Esperanza “Those with Spanish blood, who have the

fairest complexions in the land, are the wealthiest.”

________________ Esperanza, Mama, and Hortensia hid in a false floor under the

wagon.

________________ Esperanza remembers Miguel’s reward of a train ride.

________________ Carmen gave Esperanza a piece of coconut candy.

________________ Senor Rodriguez let Esperanza, Mama, Miguel, Alfonso and

Hortensia into the barn.

________________ Carmen gives the beggar some money.

________________ They arrive in the village of Zacatecas.


Las Guayabas (Guavas) Discussion Questions

1. Mama, Esperanza, and Hortensia hide under a false floor in the wagon. Do you think it is a good hiding place? Why or why not? Would you be as reluctant as Esperanza or not?

2. Hortensia helps Esperanza remain calm in the wagon by having her think about two memories. How does distracting ourselves help when we are upset? Do you think this helped the time pass faster? Did thinking about the memories really help Esperanza? Why or why not?


3. Esperanza has a very poor attitude when they get to the train station and while they are on the train. How does this make you feel about her? If you were her sibling, how would you respond to Esperanza’s actions?

4. Esperanza is struggling to understand why Mama would confide in someone like Carmen. How do you think Mama feels about Carmen? Why would Mama tell Carmen everything?


Las Guayabas (Guavas) Character Analysis

Imagine Esperanza has a cell phone and she had time to shoot off one text to her best friend Marisol before she got on the train. What do you think her text would say?


Las Guayabas (Guavas) Additional Activity

Mama makes a yarn doll for the little girl on the train after Esperanza refuses to share the doll papa gave her. Here are some instructions for how to make your own yarn doll! (You and a friend can just use your hands to wrap the yarn around like Mama and Esperanza, instead of a book.)


Predictions Page


___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

“I predict... because…” Marisol


Vocabulary: Las Melones

Find these words in Los Melones and use context clues to make your own definition of the word. Draw a quick picture of each word.

a. jalopy (p.88) b. cherubs (p.88) c. hillock (p.95) d. finery (p.96)


Las Melones (Cantaloupes) Literal Comprehension Questions


1. Where did Esperanza finally get off of the train? ________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

2. Why were people getting on trains back toward Mexico? _________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

3. Where did the family get off the train for good? Who was there to meet them?

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

4. Why is Isabel so impressed with Esperanza? ______________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

5. Why did Isabel’s family have to live in a tent at one time? ________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

6. Describe the San Joaquin Valley: __________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________


7. Why can the workers take the melons from the fields? __________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

8. Who is Marta? ___________________________________________________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

9. Why is Marta critical of

Papa?

_______________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

10. Why does Marta want the people to strike? ______________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

11. Check on how your predictions are going!


Las Melones (Cantaloupes) Text details

In the blank before each sentence, write the letter F if that sentence is a statement of fact. Write O if that sentence is a statement of opinion. ________ 1. Esperanza and Mama were very dirty from their trip on the train.

________ 2. Esperanza was nervous waiting in line.

________ 3. Esperanza and Mama are from Aguascalientes.

________ 4. Mama was angry at the man for asking so many questions.

________ 5. It is sad that some people could not get through immigration.

________ 6. Alfonso and Miguel found water for their package.

________ 7. Esperanza slept well on the train.

________ 8. The twins names are Juan and Josefina.

________ 9. Isabel is annoying.

________ 10. Esperanza did not like Isabel.

________ 11. Mama brought the two red chickens with her.

________ 12. Chicken eggs are good to make with burritos.

________ 13. The valley looked beautiful from the truck.

________ 14. The grass was prickly.

________ 15. Leftover melons taste worse than melons from a store.

________ 16. Picking leftover melons is hard work.

________ 17. Marta has short, black, and curly hair.

________ 18. Marta is mean to Esperanza because she is jealous.

________ 19. The campesinos do not have hot water.

________ 20. Esperanza does not like Marta.


Las Melones (Cantaloupes)) Character Analysis

What do you think Esperanza would text to Marisol after meeting Marta?


Las Melones (Cantaloupes) Discussion Questions

1. The immigration official is very rude and seems to be unwilling to allow Mama and Esperanza to cross into the United States. What do we learn about Mama after her interaction with the immigration official? What can you infer about Mama’s character?

2. Esperanza sees her first view of the valley that is her new home and is desperate to hear the heartbeat. When she can’t hear it, see seems to have a panic attack. Why do you think Esperanza can’t hear the heartbeat of the valley? Why did she respond the way she did? What does that tell us about her feelings about moving to this new place?


3. What is your impression of Marta? How do you feel about the way she spoke about Papa? What do you think her relationship with Esperanza will be like?


Predictions Page


___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________



Vocabulary: Las Cebollas

Find these words in Las Cebollas and write the sentence that contains the word. Using context clues, write your own definition of each word.

a. flatbed [truck] (p. 101): Sentence: Definition:

b. bestowed (p.104):

Sentence: Definition: c. plaited (p. 109)


d. gingerly (p. 114)


e. tittering (p. 117):



Las Cebollas (Onions) Literal Comprehension Questions


1. Describe the camp that Esperanza comes to live in.________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

2. Describe Esperanza’s new house. _________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

3. Why does Esperanza still consider herself to be rich? _____________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

4. What are Esperanza’s jobs at the camp? _________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

5. Who are Irene and Melina? _______________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________


6. Esperanza learns many things from Isabel. List 4 things that you think are the

MOST important for Esperanza to learn.

a.)

b.)

c.)

d.)

7. Draw a picture of what happened when Esperanza went to sweep the platform:


Las Cebollas (Onions) Spanish Numbers

In Esperanza Rising, we are continually learning new words in Spanish. Esperanza has come to a new country where she must learn new cultures and customs. Use your Math knowledge to find the Spanish words below for the numbers one (1) through ten (10). Use the clues to write the Spanish word beside the number at the bottom of the page.

Clues

Cinco is an odd number between 3 and 7 3 x (5-4) =tres 14-5 = nueve seis x seis = 36 dos x dos = 4 2 x dos = cuatro tres + cuatro = siete dos x cuatro = ocho uno + 9 = diez

1. _________________________

2. _________________________

3. _________________________

4. _________________________

5. _________________________

6. _________________________

7. _________________________

8. _________________________

9. _________________________

10. ________________________


Las Cebollas (Onions) Discussion Questions

1. Compare and contrast Esperanza’s new home in the camp to her old home. What are the major differences and are there any similarities?

2. Esperanza is angry about the new living arrangements, but seems to accept them after Mama talks to her. What does Esperanza’s explanation of still being rich tell us about her now? Do you feel Esperanza is still quite spoiled or not? Explain.


3. Esperanza asks Melina, one of the women hanging clothes, if Melina’s husband knew Marisol. The woman’s husband was a field worker who probably never even saw Marisol. Do you think this gives the women a positive impression of Esperanza? Isabel tells Esperanza that everyone in camp knows everyone else’s business. Do you think Esperanza is going to have an easy time or hard time at camp and why?

4. After Esperanza’s disastrous attempt at sweeping the platform, Miguel teaches her how to sweep at home. Esperanza does not treat Miguel very well, but Miguel is always kind to her. What do you know about Miguel and what does his behavior tell us about how he will act in the future?


Predictions Page


___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________



Vocabulary: Las Almendras

Chose four of the following vocabulary words and create vocabulary maps.

grotto starched supporters migrant citizen established

word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


Las Almendras (Almonds) Literal Comprehension Questions


1. In what way was Esperanza hurt from her first day at work? How is this

different from the rest of the family? __________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

2. What was Miguel and Alfonso’s surprise? _________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

3. Why hadn’t Esperanza taken a bath since she left Augascalientes? _______________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

4. Why was Esperanza afraid to go the jamaica? What finally made her decide to

go? _______________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

5. Describe the fiesta. _______________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

6. What does Esperanza ask Josephina for? ________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________


7. Why does Marta compare the workers to the kittens? ____________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________

8. Why are so many people looking for work on

farms? _____________________

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9. Check on your predictions!


Las Almendras (Almonds) Discussion Questions

1. Alfonso and Miguel give Mama and Esperanza a wonderful surprise with the roses. Why do you think that Alfonso, Hortensia, and Miguel continue to be so kind and helpful to Mama and Esperanza?

2. Esperanza is embarrassed again after her actions before her bath. How long do you think it will take Esperanza to stop thinking of herself as above others? Do you think she is doing these things on purpose or on accident? How is she changing?


3. Do you think it would be good or bad for the workers to strike? Defend your answer.

4. Esperanza is very unselfish when she tells Mama what she is going to pray about at church? What does this tell us about her now?


Las Almendras (Almonds) Character Analysis

What do you think Esperanza would text to Marisol about the party?


Predictions Page


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Vocabulary: Las Ciruelas

Find these words in Los Ciruelas and use context clues to make your own definition of the word. Draw a quick picture of each word.

a. pit (p 140) b. atrocious (p.141) c. tinged (p.146) d. spores (p.155)


Las Ciruelas (Plums) Literal Comprehension Questions


1. Describe Esperanza’s first morning alone with Pepe and Lupe.

2. What did Esperanza do to make the babies feel better? _______________________________________

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3. List Esperanza’s daily schedule:

4. What is the reason that some people strike and some keep working? ___________________________

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5. Describe the dust storm. Why is it so dangerous? _____________________________________________

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6. What happened to Mama? ______________________________________________________________________

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7. What is Valley Fever? __________________________________________________________________________

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8. Read over the description of the dust storm carefully; then draw a picture to show what it

looks like based upon the description in the book:


Las Ciruelas (Plums) Discussion Questions

1. Think about Esperanza’s first experience watching the babies. Did Esperanza do worse or better than you expected her to? Why?

2. Imagine being trapped in the dust storm like Mama and the other workers. How would you have felt and what would you have done?


3. Based on how she has acted in the past, how do you think Esperanza is going to handle Mama being sick?


Predictions Page


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Vocabulary: Las Papas

Chose 4 of the following vocabulary words to make vocabulary maps

needlework intent grotto charity repatriation nativity

word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


Las Papas (Potatoes) Literal Comprehension Questions


1. What is happening to Mama?

_________________________________

_________________________________

_________________________________

_________________________________

_________________________________

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2. What does Esperanza think will help Mama and why? ______________________________

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3. Compare what is happening to Mama to the blanket. ______________________________

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4. Why is Mama depressed? _________________________________________________________

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5. What does Esperanza decide to do to help herself and Mama? ____________________

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6. Describe what Esperanza is wearing to work in the sheds. How does she get her

clothing? __________________________________________________________________________

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7. Describe the process for cutting potato eyes: ____________________________________

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8. Why is Marta not allowed to stay with her aunt and uncle? _______________________

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9. What does Esperanza think of Marta’s plans? ____________________________________

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10. What is Esperanza’s Christmas wish? _____________________________________________

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Las Papas (Potatoes) Figurative Language

Read the following sentences. Explain in your own words the meaning of the italicized word or group of words. Write your response on the line below.

1. Esperanza worried the strikers might turn on her.

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2. It seemed like a lifetime ago since Papa had died.

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3. The fine brown powder had found its way deep inside the trunk.

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4. The crocheting was only a few hands wide.

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5. Esperanza stared straight into the alley of light made from the truck’s

headlamps.

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6. Esperanza was holding back tears.

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7. A thick tule ground fog that hugged the earth settled in the valley.

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8. She turned to the wall, yearning for the holidays of the past.

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Isabel slid in beside Esperanza. ___________________________________________________________________________________


Las Papas (Potatoes) Discussion Questions

1. Esperanza feels that Mama has given up now that she is sick. Do you agree or disagree with Esperanza? Why?

2. Esperanza is determined that she needs to get Abuelita to come and it would help Mama. What do you think Abuelita could do that Esperanza cannot? Do you agree that Abuelita will help Mama?


3. Is Esperanza’s plan to work to get money for Abuelita to come a good plan or a bad plan? Do you think it will be successful? Why or why not?

4. Compare and contrast what you think Esperanza’s previous Christmas celebrations were like to what she will have this year.


Predictions Page


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Vocabulary: Las Aguacates

Find these words in Las Aguacates and write the sentence that contains the word. Using context clues, write your own definition of each word.

a. vapors (p. 179): Sentence: Definition:

b. nimbly (p.181):

Sentence: Definition: c. indignation (p. 188)







Los Aguacates (Avocados) Literal Comprehension Questions


1. What did Hortencia do to help Esperanza’s hands? ________________________________

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2. How would you have felt if you were Esperanza when the doctor told her Mama

had pnemonia? ____________________________________________________________________

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3. Why did Hortensia want Esperanza to go to the grocery store? __________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

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4. Why does the family go to Mr. Yakota’s store instead of the others? ____________

____________________________________________________________________________________

5. What does Esperanza buy as a treat for Mama? _________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

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6. Where do Marta and her mother live? ____________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________


7. Why does Marta change her

mind about Esperanza?

_____________________________

_____________________________

_____________________________

_____________________________

_____________________________

_____________________________

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8. What good news does Miguel share with the family? Do you think it is good or

bad and why? _____________________________________________________________________

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Las Aguacates (Avacados) Character Analysis

What do you think Esperanza would text to Marisol about the strikers?


Los Aguacates (Avocados) Discussion Questions

1. What is Esperanza’s life like now? How have your feelings towards her changed since she arrived at the camp?

2. Miguel and Esperanza travel far to go to a market run by a Japanese man because he treats them like people. Esperanza feels protected living at the camp. Why do you think the farm workers are all looked down upon? Has this changed since that time? Why or why not?


3. Why do you think Miguel said people see Mexicans as “one big, brown group who are good for only manual labor?”

4. Marta tells Miguel and Esperanza that it might be dangerous to not join the strikers. How does this make you feel about the strikers? Are you sympathetic towards them or not?


Predictions Page


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Vocabulary: Los Esparragos Find these words in Los Esparragos and use context clues to make your own definition of the word. Draw a quick picture of each word.

a. slogan (p 199) b. atrocious (p.141) c. tinged (p.146) d. spores (p.155)


Los Esparragos (Asparagus) Literal Comprehension Questions


1. Why is Esperanza so worried about the striker’s efforts? _______________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

2. List the things the strikers did to those who did not strike.

a)

b)

c)

d)

e)

3. What happened to stop the strikers from striking? _______________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

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____________________________________________________________________________________

4. What did Esperanza discover hiding in a corner? __________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

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5. How was the striker’s camp different from before the

deportation? _______________________________________

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6. Draw a picture of what the camp now looks like:


Los Esparragos (Asparagus) Language

A synonym is a word having the same or nearly the same meaning as another word. Choose a synonym for each word in the Word List. Write the synonym on the blank.

1. begin _______________________________

2. sound _______________________________

3. wise _______________________________

4. cry _______________________________

5. pluck _______________________________

6. frighten _______________________________

7. protect _______________________________

8. starve _______________________________

9. struck _______________________________

10. slither _______________________________

11. paces _______________________________

12. mend _______________________________

13. wound _______________________________

14. dawn _______________________________

15. held _______________________________

Word List weep hit steps scare hungry glide start smart fix injure guard daybreak grasped pick noise


Los Esparragos (Asparagus) Discussion Questions

1. The strikers carry guns and drive around seeming very scary. If you were in Esperanza’s place, would you be afraid of the strikers? How would you respond to how the strikers are treating the non-strikers?

2. The government officials took all of the strikers and forced them to leave, regardless if they were American citizens or not. Do you think it is fair that this happened? Why or why not?


3. Why do you think Esperanza did not turn Marta into the officials? How is this going to change Esperanza and Marta’s relationship?


Predictions Page


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Vocabulary: Los Duraznos 1. Chose 4 of the following words and make vocabulary maps.

posy devoutly barracks irrigation anxiety relapse

word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


Los Duraznos (Peaches) Literal Comprehension Questions


1. Why is Isabel praying at the washtub grotto? ____________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

2. Why is it unlikely that Isabel will get her wish? ____________________________________

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3. How is the camp for the Oklahoma people different from Esperanza’s camp?

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4. What happened to Miguel and his job? ______________

_______________________________________________

___________________________________________

___________________________________________

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5. What is Esperanza’s reaction to Miguel losing his job? ____________________________

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6. What happened to Miguel after he and Esperanza fought? _______________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

7. Why was Isabel waiting for Esperanza? __________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

8. How does Esperanza react to Isabel’s news? _____________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

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9. What does Esperanza do for Isabel to make her feel better? ____________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

10. What good news does Esperanza receive about Mama? ___________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

11. Describe the preparations Hortensia and Josephina made for Mama. ______________

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Los Duraznos (Peaches) Character Analysis

What do you think Esperanza would text to Marisol about Miguel?


Los Duraznos (Peaches) Discussion Questions

1. Isabel was desperate to be the Queen of May, but was unsure that she would get it because it is normally given to a white child who has nicer clothes. Isabel did not get to be the queen. Do you think she was silly to hope for it? Why or why not?

2. Miguel is replaced by men who will work for less, but are not as skilled. He is forced to do hard labor instead of what he is good at. Then, he and Esperanza have a terrible argument. What do you think made Miguel leave? What do you think is doing and where did he go?


3. Esperanza gives her doll from Papa to Isabel to take to school. Think about Esperanza’s experience on the train with the doll. How has Esperanza changed? Do you think being in the camp has helped or hurt her? Explain.

4. What do you believe happened to Esperanza’s money orders? What would you have done in her situation?


Predictions Page


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Vocabulary: Las Uvas Find these words in Las Uvas and use context clues to make your own definition of the word. Draw a quick picture of each word.





1. Why was Esperanza mad at Miguel? ______________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

2. What fruit did the women have to sort? _____________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

3. What is Esperanza’s favorite fruit and why? _________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

4. What does Alfonso come to tell Esperanza?

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

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5. Is Esperanza excited to see Miguel? Why or why not? ___________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

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6. What is Mama’s reaction to the surprise? ________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

7. Describe how Abuelita traveled to the camp. ______________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

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8. How did Esperanza tell Abuelita her story? _______________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

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9. What did Esperanza ask Miguel for her birthday? Why did she want this gift?

____________________________________________________________________________________

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____________________________________________________________________________________ 10. What was Esperanza’s big realization? ____________________________________________

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1. Miguel did not bring Esperanza back her money orders. What did he bring her instead? Is this a better or worse gift? Why?

2. Did Abuelita’s response to the family’s living condition surprise you or not? What do you know about Abuelita that helped you?


3. Compare and contrast Esperanza’s last birthday to this birthday.


End of Book Activities

In the following space, write a letter to Esperanza, and tell her how you feel about her and what she has gone through. ___________________________________________________________________________________________

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End of Book Activities The chapter titles in Esperanza Rising are the names of fruits and vegetables. Each fruit or vegetable appears in that chapter and symbolizes something important. Write about each fruit or vegetable in the chart below.

Chapter Title/Food

How does the food appear in the story?

What does the fruit symbolize?

Uvas

Papayas

Higos

Guayabas

Melones

Cebollas

Almendras

Ciruelas

Papas

Aguacates

Esparragos

Duraznos

Uvas



The first and last chapters are named with the same fruit- grapes. Why do you think the author chose to name these chapters the same title? ______________________________________________________________________

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Teacher Answer Key


Whole Book Prereading Questions (Use these to activate prior knowledge and lead a discussion with students.) 1. Predict what the story might be about just by hearing the title. 2. Predict what the story might be about by looking at the cover illustration. Please answer the following questions in complete sentences.

1. Have you ever lost something that meant the world to you? How did it make you feel? If you haven’t, what do you imagine that would feel like?

2. How would you be able to take care of your family if your parents died or got really sick? 3. How easy or hard would it be for you to learn to live in a shack without running water or electricity? Describe why it would be easy or hard. 4. What types of feelings would you have if you were forced to move to a new country with no money and completely start over?


5. Write descriptions of what makes a person strong and courageous. Determine whether such strength is emotional, spiritual, or physical; and if you can acquire it or are you born with it?


Spanish translation!

Esperanza Rising is full of Spanish words and phrases. Throughout the book, you come across them in italics, usually followed by the English translation. For example, on page 2 you find:

“Aguantate tantito y la fruta caera en tu mano,” he said. “Wait a little while and the fruit will fall into your hand. You must be patient, Esperanza.”

“Aguantate tantito y la fruta caera en tu mano” translates into “Wait a little while and the fruit will fall into your hand”. As you read, keep track of what the Spanish phrases mean in your English/Spanish dictionary!

. Explain to students the words are USUALLY written in English after or before the Spanish. The Spanish is always in italics. Some words they may need to use context clues to figure out.


Esperanza Rising


Las Uvas As you read Esperanza Rising, you will notice many Spanish words and phrases. Please fill in the chart as you read.

Spanish English

Cuidate los dedos watch your fingers

Vaqueros Cowboys

campesinos Field workers

La cosecha The harvest

Ole Yay or hooray

Fiesta Party

Quinceaneras 15th birthday, presentation party

Las Mananitas The birthday song

Algun dia someday

Mi nieta My granddaughter

El jefe The boss

Companero Close friend

Mi reina My queen

Un burro A donkey


Las Papayas

Las Guayabas

Spanish English

Un chal Shawl

La sala Large entry hall

Que paso, nina? What happened?

Mantilla Hat

La calabaza Squash plant

Mija Daughter

Raton Rat

Rebozo Blanket shawl

Carpetas Lace doilies

Mona doll

Gracias Thank you

De nada You’re welcome

Pepinos Cucumbers


Los Melones

Los Cebollas

Spanish English

Una palanca A lever

Dulces Sweets

Buena suerte Good luck

Campesino poor

Arroyo A river

Jamaica Party

Entiendes understand

De veras? The truth?

Café coffee

Chorizo sausage

Un burrito de frijoles Tortilla filled with pinto beans

La Cenicienta Cinderella

Mi reina My queen


Las Almendras

Los Ciruelas

Las Papas

Spanish English

Andale hurry

Agua de Jamaica Hibiscus Flower Water

Huelga Strike

Rapido quickly

Una tormenta de polvo Dust storm

Mi gata My cat

Manana tomorrow

La Migra Immigration authorities

La Navidad Christmas

Feliz Navidad Merry Christmas

Catedral Church

Atole de chocolate Hot chocolate

Un cuento de hadas A fairy tale


Los Esparragos

Los Aguacates

Spanish English

La patrona caretaker

Americana please

La Migra What good luck

Gracias Thank you

Por favor American

Que Buena suerte Immigration

Gracias Thank you



scythe arbor acre premonition mesquite crochet

word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence



13. Who is telling the story?

An unknown narrator is telling the story. (3rd person) 14. What is the name of the ranch? The ranch is named El Rancho de los Rosas. 15. Who lives on the ranch? Esperanza, Papa, Mama, Abuelita, the house servants,

vaqueros, campesinos, Alfonso, Hortensia, and Miguel all live on the ranch. 16. What fruit does the ranch grow The ranch grows grapes. 17. What is Esperanza about to celebrate and why is it important? Esperanza is about

to celebrate her 13th birthday. It is important because the family celebrated with a huge party.

18. What did Papa promise to Esperanza? Did he keep his promise? Papa promised Esperanza that he would be back in time to celebrate her birthday. He did not keep his promise.

19. What happened to Esperanza that was “bad luck?” Who agreed with Esperanza

that is was bad luck? Esperanza stabbed her finger on a rose thorn. Mama agreed it was bad luck.

20. Why was there resentment toward Mexican land owners? There had been a revolution, but the poor people were still angry because the wealthy still own most of the land and the poor people have nothing to eat.

21. Abuelita is very wise. What does she do to keep her mind busy? What does she

mean by “There is no rose without thorns.” Abuelita crochets to keep her mind busy. Abuelita means there is no life without difficulties.

22. Who are Alfonso, Hortensia, and Miguel? Alfonso, Hortensia, and Miguel are the family servants.

23. Who are Tio Luis and Tio Marco and what do they bring to Mama? Tio Luis and Tio Marco are Papa’s stepbrothers (Esperanza’s uncles) and they brought Papa’s silver belt buckle to Mama.

What was brought back in the wagon? Papa’s body was brought back in the wagon.



5. For most of this chapter, we learn all about how special Esperanza’s birthday is and how she celebrates every year. How do your birthday celebrations compare to Esperanza’s celebrations? Are there any special traditions that you look forward to every year like her?

6. After Esperanza pricks her finger on the rose thorn, Abuelita tells her, “No hay rosa sin espinas. There is no rose without thorns.” This is called a proverb, a short saying that states a general truth or that gives advice about how people should live. Many times a proverb is stated in a way that doesn’t literally mean what it says, such as, “The early bird catches the worm.” Esperanza understands what Abuelita is saying, that there is no life without difficulties. Using what you know about the novel so far, how do you think this saying foreshadows what is going to happen in the rest of the story?


7. When Esperanza was a little girl, she stated she was going to marry Miguel and they were very good friends. Now, she believes that they stand on opposite sides of a deep river that they can never cross. Telling this to Miguel has forever changed their relationship and Esperanza regrets telling him. Do you think Esperanza was right or wrong to tell this to Miguel? Why do you think Esperanza said they can never cross the river?

8. What are your feelings about Esperanza after finishing Las Uvas? Do you like or dislike her? Could you be friends with someone like her? Why or why not?


Predictions Page


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Vocabulary: Las Papayas Find these words in Las Papayas and write the sentence that contains the word. Using context clues, write your own definition of each word.

a. melodic (p. 23): Sentence: Definition:

b. refined (p.26):

Sentence: Definition: c. crocheting (p. 29):


d. indignation (p. 30):


e. reputation (p.36):


f. pervaded (p. 38): Sentence: Definition:


Las Papayas (Papayas) Literal Comprehension Questions


16. What did Esperanza dream about? Did it come true? Why or why not?

Esperanza dreamt about Papa and the others singing outside her window for her birthday. It did not come true because Papa is dead.

17. Who is Senor Rodriguez? What did he

bring and for what occasion? Senor Rodriguez is Marisol’s father and the family’s neighbor. He brought papayas for Esperanza’s birthday.

18. What was Esperanza’s favorite birthday

food? Esperanza’s favorite birthday food is a papaya, coconut, and lime salad.

19. How long did Papa’s funeral last? Papa’s funeral lasted 3 days.

20. Why didn’t Esperanza want to open her birthday presents? She didn’t want to open her presents because they reminded her of the party she was supposed to have.

21. What present did Papa give Esperanza every year? Papa gave Esperanza a porcelain doll every year.

22. Why does Esperanza compare Tio Luis and Tio Marco to la calabaza? Tio Luis and Tio Marco are like la calabaza because they encroach on anything smaller.

23. Why does Esperanza get angry when she sees Tio Luis wearing Papa’s belt

buckle? How would you have felt? Esperanza gets angry because it was wrong for Tio Luis to be acting like Papa. (Accept reasonable answers)

24. What does Tio Luis ask of Mama? Tio Luis asks Mama to marry him. 25. What kinds of things could Tio Luis do to Mama because she refused to marry

him? Tio Luis could kick Mama out of the house, take away all the money from the grapes, and make things difficult for her.

26. What did Mama get to keep after Papa died? What did Tio Luis and Tio Marco

get to have? Mama gets to keep the house and the income from the grapes. Tio Luis and Marco get the land.


27. Why is everyone so worried about getting money? Tio Luis owns the bank and could prevent Mama from getting the money out of it.

28. What did Abuelita say about rosehips? Abuelita said the rosehip contained the memories of the roses and when you drank tea made from it, you took in all the beauty the plant had known.

29. How is Papa different from other landowners in Mexico? Papa gives land to his servants.

30. What does Esperanza mean when she tells Miguel that they are on different

sides of the river? Esperanza means that they are in different social circles, she is rich, he is poor.

31. Go back to your predictions for this chapter and write if they came true or not.

You may not know if they came true yet.


In the following activity, you will become a character in each situation and express yourself as if “you were there.” Pretend you are the character and tell what they see, smell, hear, touch, and feel. Activity: After Papa’s death, Mama finds herself in a tough situation. She has lost her husband, her land, and has refused a powerful man what he wants. Mama has shown strength by telling Tio Luis she will not marry him, but it has put her, her family, and her servants in danger. Pretend you are Mama after telling Tio Luis no. What happened and how are you feeling? Time: ___________ Date: ______________

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________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

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________________________________________________________________

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Las Papayas (Papayas) Discussion Questions

5. Esperanza is understandably devastated by her father’s death. Senor Rodriguez brings the papayas for the big fiesta and Esperanza has to tell him about Papa’s death. Esperanza is described as feeling as if she “were in someone else’s body, watching a sad scene but unable to help.” Think of a time that you felt similar. How did your situation compare to what Esperanza is going through?

6. Mama and Abuelita insist that Esperanza open all of her birthday presents after Papa’s funeral. Describe how important you think the doll Papa picked out for Esperanza will be to her. Do you have something as important to you that you keep? Can you understand Esperanza’s feelings about the doll?


7. Tio Luis wants Mama to marry him, but not because he loves her. He wants more power and influence and Mama can help him. What do you think Tio Luis will do after Mama refuses him again? Do you think he has the right to make things ‘difficult’ for Mama? Why or why not?

8. Miguel tells Esperanza that he and his parents are thinking about leaving the ranch and possibly moving to the United States. He says that they have the chance to be more than servants in the US. Esperanza is upset, but it doesn’t change how she acts towards Miguel. What does Miguel mean when he tells Esperanza that “in Mexico we stand on different sides of the river,”?


Predictions Page


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Las Higos (Figs) Word Work

Read the following sentences. Decide if the italicized part of the sentence tells you where, when, or how. Circle the correct choice. 11. Papa left the ranch at dawn. where when how

12. Esperanza and Miguel played in the rose garden. where when how

13. The wagon returned later that night. where when how

14. Esperanza watched carefully from her room. where when how

15. In the morning, Esperanza wished it was a dream. where when how

16. Tio Luis and Marco arrived quickly. where when how

17. The family went to the funeral to remember Papa. where when how

18. Esperanza talked with Miguel one morning. where when how

19. The roses grew on the vines. where when how

20. The men worked in the field. where when how



waif valise venom whimpered cinder plentiful

word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


Las Higos (Figs) Literal Comprehension Questions


14. What do you think Esperanza’s dream about the bear symbolizes? (Accept reasonable answers)

15. Why was Mama shaking Esperanza awake? Mama was shaking Esperanza awake because the house was on fire.

16. Why did Miguel have to go get Abuelita?

Miguel had to get Abuelita because she had passed out when she went to get the crocheting.

17. What did the fire burn? The fire burned the house and all the grapes.

18. What was saved from the fire? Nothing. 19. What could Tio Luis and Tio Marco do if

Mama refuses Tio Luis? They could burn the servants homes.

20. What is Mama’s decision and how does it affect Esperanza? Mama decides to move to the United States. Esperanza will have to leave her friends and school.

21. Why does Abuelita compare them to a phoenix? Abuelita compares them to a phoenix because they are rising again with a new life ahead of them.

22. Why does Abuelita go to the convent (a place where nuns live)? Abuelita goes to the convent to recover from her accident in the fire. It is also safe for her there

23. What does Abuelita give to Esperanza and why does she give it to Esperanza?

Abuelita gives Esperanza her unfinished crocheting. She gives it to Esperanza to finish and to tell time by.

24. What are the figs used for that Senor Rodriguez brings over? The figs are used as part of Senor Rodriguez’s disguise.

25. What did Esperanza take with her? Esperanza takes clothes, a package of tamales, and her doll from Papa.

26. What “looked as if someone had taken a giant comb, dipped it in black paint, and

gently swirled it across a huge canvas?” The burnt grapevines.


Las Higos (Figs) Discussion Questions

6. How are your feelings towards Esperanza after the fire? Can you relate to all the sad things she has gone through in such a short time? Why or why not?

7. After the fire, Esperanza’s uncles visit the ranch. Do you think Tio Luis and Tio Marco felt sorry for Esperanza, Mama, and Abuelita? Why or why not?

8. When Tio Luis and Tio Marco visit, Tio Luis asks Mama again to marry him. Why did Mama ask for Esperanza’s forgiveness with her eyes? Do you think Mama made the right decision? Would you respect Mama if you were Esperanza?


9. After Abuelita leaves for the convent, the nuns leave a wooden box with Mama and Esperanza’s papers and clothes from the poor box. Why do you think Esperanza is so surprised that the clothes are for her and Mama? How do you think Esperanza will feel about having to wear the donated clothes?

10. Esperanza is leaving everything she has known to go to a new place with almost nothing. At the end of the chapter, it says Esperanza ‘could see nothing behind her but a trail of splattered figs she had resentfully smashed beneath her feet.’ Does Esperanza have the right to be so angry? Would you be more angry or sad in her situation? Explain.


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Vocabulary: Las Guayabas Find these words in Las Guayabas and write the sentence that contains the word. Using context clues, write your own definition of each word.

a. reluctantly (p. 59): Sentence: Definition:

b. renegades (p.61):

Sentence: Definition: c. blustery (p. 64)


d. shawl (p. 65)


e. peasants (p. 66):


f undulating (p. 68): Sentence: Definition:


Las Guayabas (Guavas) Literal Comprehension Questions


10. Why was it unsafe for the women to ride in the front of the wagon?They might be attacked by bandits or be seen by one of the uncle’s spies.

11. What does Hortensia tell Esperanza to make her feel better? Hortensia tells Esperanza to remember when they hid from the thieves.

12. What was Miguel’s reward from Papa? What does Papa buy for Esperanza

and Miguel? Papa rewarded Miguel with a train ride. Papa bought them mangoes on a stick.

13. Describe the train car Esperanza rides in. The train car is simple, with rows of wooden benches, trash on the floor, stinky.

14. What does the peasant girl want from Esperanza? What is Mama’s reaction to

Esperanza’s attitude? The girl wants to play with Esperanza’s doll from Papa. Mama is upset that Esperanza won’t share.

15. What do you think Alfonso and Miguel are hiding? What do they keep doing

with the package? (Accept reasonable answers) Alfonso and Miguel take the package to a water trough, dampen it and rebundle it.

16. Why is Miguel excited to go to the United States? Miguel is excited because he will be able to get a job on a railroad.

17. Who is the woman with the hens and why is she important? The woman with the hens is Carmen. She is important because Mama confides in her and Esperanza realizes they are now poor.

18. Go back and answers if your predictions came true or not on your predictions

page. Remember, they may not have happened yet!


Las Guayabas (Guavas) Sequencing Events

The events listed below are arranged in incorrect sequence. Write 1 in the blank before the event that happened first, 2 before the event that happened next, and so on.

6 Mama and Esperanza get on a train car with peasants.

3 Hortensia reassures Esperanza with a story.

7 Mama makes a yarn doll for a little girl after Esperanza refuses

to let her play with Esperanza’s doll.

10 Miguel tells Esperanza “Those with Spanish blood, who have

the fairest complexions in the land, are the wealthiest.”

2 Esperanza, Mama, and Hortensia hid in a false floor under the

wagon.

4 Esperanza remembers Miguel’s reward of a train ride.

8 Carmen gave Esperanza a piece of coconut candy.

1 Senor Rodríguez let Esperanza, Mama, Miguel, Alfonso and

Hortensia into the barn.

9 Carmen gives the beggar some money.

5 They arrive in the village of Zacatecas.


Las Guayabas (Guavas) Discussion Questions

5. Mama, Esperanza, and Hortensia hide under a false floor in the wagon. Do you think it is a good hiding place? Why or why not? Would you be as reluctant as Esperanza or not?

6. Hortensia helps Esperanza remain calm in the wagon by having her think about two memories. How does distracting ourselves help when we are upset? Do you think this helped the time pass faster? Did thinking about the memories really help Esperanza? Why or why not?


7. Esperanza has a very poor attitude when they get to the train station and while they are on the train. How does this make you feel about her? If you were her sibling, how would you respond to Esperanza’s actions?

8. Esperanza is struggling to understand why Mama would confide in someone like Carmen. How do you think Mama feels about Carmen? Why would Mama tell Carmen everything?


Las Guayabas (Guavas) Character Analysis

Imagine Esperanza has a cell phone and she had time to shoot off one text to her best friend Marisol before she got on the train. What do you think her text would say?


Predictions Page


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“I predict... because…” Marisol


Vocabulary: Las Melones

Find these words in Los Melones and use context clues to make your own definition of the word. Draw a quick picture of each word.

a. jalopy (p.88) b. cherubs (p.88) c. hillock (p.95) d. finery (p.96)


Las Melones (Cantaloupes) Literal Comprehension Questions


12. Where did Esperanza finally get off of the train? Esperanza got off the train at Mexicali.

13. Why were people getting on trains back toward Mexico? They were being sent back because they had no papers or proof of work.

14. Where did the family get off the train for good? Who was there to meet them?

They got off the train in Los Angeles. Alfonso’s brother Juan, his wife Josefina, Isabel and the twins met them.

15. Why is Isabel so impressed with Esperanza? Isabel is impressed with Esperanza because she used to have dolls and fancy dresses and was wealthy.

16. Why did Isabel’s family have to live in a tent at one time? Isabel’s family had to live in a tent because they were working for a farm that did not give them lodging.

17. Describe the San Joaquin Valley: The San Joaquin Valley is flat & spacious with a blanket of patchwork fields. It has lots of hills, valleys and mountains.

18. Why can they take the melons from the fields? They can take the melons because the field markers were down.

19. Who is Marta? What do you think of her? Marta is a girl who is about Miguel’s age that lives in another camp that picks cotton. (Accept reasonable answers)

20. Why is Marta critical of

Papa? Marta thinks Papa is like the other rich land owners who do not help the poor.

21. Why does Marta want the

people to strike? Marta wants the people to strike so there will be better living conditions for the workers and it is fair for all the different types of people.

22. Check on how your predictions are going!


Las Melones (Cantaloupes) Text details

In the blank before each sentence, write the letter F if that sentence is a statement of fact. Write O if that sentence is a statement of opinion.

F 1. Esperanza and Mama were very dirty from their trip on the train.

F 2. Esperanza was nervous waiting in line.

F 3. Esperanza and Mama are from Aguascalientes.

F 4. Mama was angry at the man for asking so many questions.

O 5. It is sad that some people could not get through immigration.

F 6. Alfonso and Miguel found water for their package.

F 7. Esperanza slept well on the train.

F 8. The twins names are Juan and Josefina.

O 9. Isabel is annoying.

O 10. Esperanza did not like Isabel.

F 11. Mama brought the two red chickens with her.

O 12. Chicken eggs are good to make with burritos.

O 13. The valley looked beautiful from the truck.

O 14. The grass was prickly.

O 15. Left over melons taste worse than melons from a store.

O 16. Picking leftover melons is hard work.

F 17. Marta has short, black, and curly hair.

O 18. Marta is mean to Esperanza because she is jealous.

F 19. The campesinos do not have hot water.

F 20. Esperanza does not like Marta.


Las Melones (Cantaloupes)) Character Analysis

What do you think Esperanza would text to Marisol after meeting Marta?


Las Melones (Cantaloupes) Discussion Questions

4. The immigration official is very rude and seems to be unwilling to allow Mama and Esperanza to cross into the United States. What do we learn about Mama after her interaction with the immigration official? What can you infer about Mama’s character?

5. Esperanza sees her first view of the valley that is her new home and is desperate to hear the heartbeat. When she can’t hear it, see seems to have a panic attack. Why do you think Esperanza can’t hear the heartbeat of the valley? Why did she respond the way she did? What does that tell us about her feelings about moving to this new place?


6. What is your impression of Marta? How do you feel about the way she spoke about Papa? What do you think her relationship with Esperanza will be like?


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Vocabulary: Las Cebollas

Find these words in Las Cebollas and write the sentence that contains the word. Using context clues, write your own definition of each word.

a. flatbed [truck] (p. 101): Sentence: Definition:

b. bestowed (p.104):

Sentence: Definition: c. plaited (p. 109)







Las Cebollas (Onions) Literal Comprehension Questions


8. Describe the camp that Esperanza comes to live in. The camp is in a clearing surrounded by grape fields, with rows of small, white, wooden cabins.

9. Describe Esperanza’s new house. How is it different from her old house?

Esperanza’s cabin has only 2 rooms, mattresses are on the floor, the furniture is made of crates. Everything in the new house is old, dirty. In her old house everything was fancy.

10. Why does Esperanza still consider herself to be rich? Esperanza thinks that Abuelita will come and bring her money to buy a big house once she is healed.

11. What are Esperanza’s jobs at the camp? Esperanza helps Isabel watch the babies, and she sweeps the wooden platform.

12. Who are Irene and Melina? Irene and Melina are two women who work in the camp. 13. Esperanza learns many things from Isabel. List 4 things that you think are the

MOST important for Esperanza to learn.

(Possible answers) How to sweep the platform, change diapers, clean the babies bottoms, pin the diapers, wash clothes.

14. Draw a picture of what happened when Esperanza went to sweep the platform:


Las Cebollas (Onions) Spanish Numbers

In Esperanza Rising, we are continually learning new words in Spanish. Esperanza has come to a new country where she must learn new cultures and customs. Use your Math knowledge to find the Spanish words below for the numbers one (1) through ten (10). Use the clues to write the Spanish word beside the number at the bottom of the page.

Clues

Cinco is an odd number between 3 and 7 3 x (5-4) =tres 14-5 = nueve seis x seis = 36 dos x dos = 4 2 x dos = cuatro tres + cuatro = siete dos x cuatro = ocho uno + 9 = diez

1. uno

2. dos 3. tres 4. cuatro

5. cinco

6. seis

7. siete 8. ocho

9.nueve

10.diez

Las Cebollas (Onions) Discussion Questions


5. Compare and contrast Esperanza’s new home in the camp to her old home. What are the major differences and are there any similarities?

6. Esperanza is angry about the new living arrangements, but seems to accept them after Mama talks to her. What does Esperanza’s explanation of still being rich tell us about her now? Do you feel Esperanza is still quite spoiled or not? Explain.

7. Esperanza asks Melina, one of the women hanging clothes, if Melina’s husband knew Marisol. The woman’s husband was a field worker who probably never even saw Marisol. Do you think this gives the women a positive impression of Esperanza? Isabel tells Esperanza that everyone in camp knows everyone else’s business. Do you think Esperanza is going to have an easy time or hard time at camp and why?


8. After Esperanza’s disastrous attempt at sweeping the platform, Miguel teaches her how to sweep at home. Esperanza does not treat Miguel very well, but Miguel is always kind to her. What do you know about Miguel and what does his behavior tell us about how he will act in the future?


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Vocabulary: Las Almendras

Chose four of the following vocabulary words and create vocabulary maps.

grotto starched supporters migrant citizen established

word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


Las Almendras (Almonds) Literal Comprehension Questions


10. In what way was Esperanza hurt from her first day at work? How is this

different from the rest of the family? Esperanza’s pride was hurt. Everyone else was physically hurt/tired.

11. What was Miguel and Alfonso’s surprise? Miguel and Alfonso brought some of Papa’s roses with them to plant in America.

12. Why hadn’t Esperanza taken a bath since she left Augascalientes? There had not been a washtub or opportunity to take a bath.

13. Why was Esperanza afraid to go the jamaica? What finally made her decide to

go? Esperanza was afraid that people would tease her or Marta would make fun of her at the party. Esperanza wanted some of the almond flan at the party.

14. Describe the fiesta. People were dressed up, there were lights strung, people were selling things, there were bingo tables, and a dance area.

15. What does Esperanza ask Josephina for? Esperanza asks Josephina if Isobel can have a kitten.

16. Why does Marta compare the workers to the kittens? Marta says the workers are small, meek animals who don’t speak up for themselves.

17. Why are so many people looking for work on farms? There is little work, little rain, and little hope. OR To take care of their families.



Las Almendras (Almonds) Discussion Questions

5. Alfonso and Miguel give Mama and Esperanza a wonderful surprise with the roses. Why do you think that Alfonso, Hortensia, and Miguel continue to be so kind and helpful to Mama and Esperanza?

6. Esperanza is embarrassed again after her actions before her bath. How long do you think it will take Esperanza to stop thinking of herself as above others? Do you think she is doing these things on purpose or on accident? How is she changing?


7. Do you think it would be good or bad for the workers to strike? Defend your answer.

8. Esperanza is very unselfish when she tells Mama what she is going to pray about at church? What does this tell us about her now?


Las Almendras (Almonds) Character Analysis

What do you think Esperanza would text to Marisol about the party?


Predictions Page


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Vocabulary: Las Ciruelas

Find these words in Los Ciruelas and use context clues to make your own definition of the word. Draw a quick picture of each word.

a. pit (p 140) b. atrocious (p.141) c. tinged (p.146) d. spores (p.155)


Las Ciruelas (Plums) Literal Comprehension Questions


9. Describe Esperanza’s first morning alone with Pepe and Lupe. (Accept reasonable answers)

10. What did Esperanza do to make the babies feel better? Esperanza gave the babies rice water.

11. List Esperanza’s daily schedule:

Walk Isabel to the bus, bring babies back to cabin, fix bottles, make beds, start dinner, was clothes, eat lunch, play with babies, sweep the platform,

12. What is the reason that some people strike and some keep working? Some people are afraid to lose their jobs and others are more concerned with making things better for themselves.

13. Describe the dust storm. Why is it so dangerous? The dust storm is like a massive dust tornado, blasting everything with pellets of sand and dirt. It is dangerous because people can be injured and it can destroy things.

14. What happened to Mama? Mama got caught in the dust storm and got very sick. She caught Valley Fever.

15. What is Valley Fever? Valley Fever is a disease of the lungs caused by dust spores that can cause an infection. It will cause Mama to have a fever, cough, have headaches & joint aches, and a rash.

16. Read over the description of the dust storm carefully; then draw a picture to show what it

looks like based upon the description in the book:


Las Ciruelas (Plums) Discussion Questions

4. Think about Esperanza’s first experience watching the babies. Did Esperanza do worse or better than you expected her to? Why?

5. Imagine being trapped in the dust storm like Mama and the other workers. How would you have felt and what would you have done?


6. Based on how she has acted in the past, how do you think Esperanza is going to handle Mama being sick?


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Vocabulary: Las Papas

Chose 4 of the following vocabulary words to make vocabulary maps

needlework intent grotto charity repatriation nativity

word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


Las Papas (Potatoes) Literal Comprehension Questions


12. What is happening to Mama? Mama is still sick, not getting any better.

13. What does Esperanza think will

help Mama and why? Esperanza thinks that Abuelita will help because she will know how to save Mama.

14. Compare what is happening to

Mama to the blanket. Esperanza feels that every time she reaches a mountain, she heads back down into a valley of Mama being sick that she can’t escape.

15. Why is Mama depressed? Mama is depressed because she lost her husband, her home, her money, she’s separated from her mother, and is worried about taking care of Esperanza.

16. What does Esperanza decide to do to help herself and Mama? Esperanza decides to work so she can save the money to get Abuelita.

17. Describe what Esperanza is wearing to work in the sheds. How does she get

her clothing? Esperanza is wearing all the clothes she could put on. She borrows the clothing from friends in the camp.

18. Describe the process for cutting potato eyes: The women take a sharp knife and cut around the dimples in the potatoes, leaving two eyes in each piece.

19. Why is Marta not allowed to stay with her aunt and uncle? Marta is not allowed to stay because her aunt & uncle cannot risk losing their jobs because of her.

20. What does Esperanza think of Marta’s plans? Esperanza is weary of them because she must work to pay Mama’s bills.

21. What is Esperanza’s Christmas wish? Esperanza wants Mama to get well and for soft hands.

22.




Las Papas (Potatoes) Figurative Language

Read the following sentences. Explain in your own words the meaning of the italicized word or group of words. Write your response on the line below.

9. Esperanza worried the strikers might turn on her. ex) Go against her

10. It seemed like a lifetime ago since Papa had died. ex) a long time ago

11. The fine brown powder had found its way deep inside the trunk. ex) somehow got in

12. The crocheting was only a few hands wide. ex) not very big

13. Esperanza stared straight into the alley of light made from the truck’s headlamps. ex) looked where the light shined

14. Esperanza was holding back tears. ex) trying not to cry

15. A thick ground fog that hugged the earth settled in the valley. ex) was close to the ground

16. She turned to the wall, yearning for the holidays of the past. ex) wishing for

17. Isabel slid in beside Esperanza. ex) carefully sat down


Las Papas (Potatoes) Discussion Questions

5. Esperanza feels that Mama has given up now that she is sick. Do you agree or disagree with Esperanza? Why?

6. Esperanza is determined that she needs to get Abuelita to come and it would help Mama. What do you think Abuelita could do that Esperanza cannot? Do you agree that Abuelita will help Mama?


7. Is Esperanza’s plan to work to get money for Abuelita to come a good plan or a bad plan? Do you think it will be successful? Why or why not?

8. Compare and contrast what you think Esperanza’s previous Christmas celebrations were like to what she will have this year.


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Vocabulary: Las Aguacates

Find these words in Las Aguacates and write the sentence that contains the word. Using context clues, write your own definition of each word.

a. vapors (p. 179): Sentence: Definition:

b. nimbly (p.181):

Sentence: Definition: c. indignation (p. 188)







Los Aguacates (Avocados) Literal Comprehension Questions


9. What did Hortencia do to help Esperanza’s hands? Hortencia mixes avocado with glycerin onto Esperanza’s hands to soften them.

10. How would you have felt if you were Esperanza when the doctor told her

Mama had pnemonia? (Accept reasonable answers) 11. Why did Hortensia want Esperanza to go to the grocery store? Hortensia

wanted to keep Esperanza busy so she would not worry about Mama. 12. Why does the family go to Mr. Yakota’s store instead of the others? Mr. Yakota

doesn’t treat the Mexican people poorly or charge them more money. 13. What does Esperanza buy as a treat for Mama? Esperanza buys Mama a

miniature piñata. 14. Where do Marta and her mother live? Marta and her mother live in a farm with

other people who are on strike. 15. Why does Marta change

her mind about Esperanza?

Marta sees that Esperanza is working hard to take care of Mama and not acting spoiled.

16. What good news does Miguel share with the family? Do you think it is good or bad and why?

Miguel got a job in the machine shop at the railroad. (Accept reasonable answers)

17.


Las Aguacates (Avacados) Character Analysis

What do you think Esperanza would text to Marisol about the strikers?


Los Aguacates (Avocados) Discussion Questions

5. What is Esperanza’s life like now? How have your feelings towards her changed since she arrived at the camp?

6. Miguel and Esperanza travel far to go to a market run by a Japanese man because he treats them like people. Esperanza feels protected living at the camp. Why do you think the farm workers are all looked down upon? Has this changed since that time? Why or why not?


7. Why do you think Miguel said people see Mexicans as “one big, brown group who are good for only manual labor?”

8. Marta tells Miguel and Esperanza that it might be dangerous to not join the strikers. How does this make you feel about the strikers? Are you sympathetic towards them or not?


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Vocabulary: Los Esparragos Find these words in Los Esparragos and use context clues to make your own definition of the word. Draw a quick picture of each word.



Los Esparragos (Asparagus) Literal Comprehension Questions


7. Why is Esperanza so worried about the striker’s efforts? Esperanza is worried about what will happen to Mama if she doesn’t have a job.

8. List the things the strikers did to those who did not strike.

Throw rocks at them, put rats in the crates, snakes in the crates, razor blades, shards of glass in the bins, put rattlesnakes in them

9. What happened to stop the strikers from striking? Immigration officials came and sent everyone back to Mexico, even those who were citizens.

10. What did Esperanza discover hiding in a corner? Esperanza found Marta hiding in the corner.

11. How was the striker’s camp different from before the deportation? The camp had no people around anymore.

12. Draw a picture of what the camp now looks like:


Los Esparragos (Asparagus) Language

A synonym is a word having the same or nearly the same meaning as another word. Choose a synonym for each word in the Word List. Write the synonym on the blank.

16. begin start 17. sound noise 18. wise smart 19. cry weep 20. pluck pick 21. frighten scare 22. protect guard 23. starve hungry 24. struck hit 25. slither glide 26. paces steps 27. mend fix 28. wound injure 29. dawn daybreak 30. held grasped

Word List weep hit steps scare hungry glide start smart fix injure guard daybreak grasped pick noise


Los Esparragos (Asparagus) Discussion Questions

4. The strikers carry guns and drive around seeming very scary. If you were in Esperanza’s place, would you be afraid of the strikers? How would you respond to how the strikers are treating the non-strikers?

5. The government officials took all of the strikers and forced them to leave, regardless if they were American citizens or not. Do you think it is fair that this happened? Why or why not?


6. Why do you think Esperanza did not turn Marta into the officials? How is this going to change Esperanza and Marta’s relationship?


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Vocabulary: Los Duraznos 2. Chose 4 of the following words and make vocabulary maps.

posy devoutly barracks irrigation anxiety relapse

word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


word

synonym picture

definition sentence

word

synonym picture

definition sentence


Los Duraznos (Peaches) Literal Comprehension Questions


13. Why is Isabel praying at the washtub grotto? Isabel wants to be The Queen of May..

14. Why is it unlikely that Isabel will get her wish? It is usually only English speaking girls who dress nicely that get chosen.

15. How is the camp for the Oklahoma people different from Esperanza’s camp?

The Oklahoma camp will have inside toilets, hot water, and a swimming pool. 16. What happened to Miguel and his job? Miguel lost his job to some men from

Oklahoma who offered to work for less pay. He had to dig ditches to keep his job. 17. What is Esperanza’s reaction to Miguel losing his job? Why do you think she

reacted this way? Esperanza is very upset. (Accept reasonable answers) 18. What happened to Miguel after he and Esperanza fought? Miguel disappeared the

day after he & Esperanza fought. 19. Why was Isabel waiting for Esperanza? Isabel was upset because she did not win

the Queen of May, even though she had the best grades. 20. How does Esperanza react to Isabel’s news? Esperanza is terribly sorry. 21. What does Esperanza do for Isabel to make her feel better Esperanza give Isabel

her doll from Papa. 22. What good news does Esperanza receive about Mama? Mama has gotten well

enough to leave the hospital. 23. Describe the preparations Hortensia and Josephina made for Mama. The women

scrub the cabin, wash all the bedding, and make a nice spot for Mama to sit outside. 24. Check on your predictions!


Los Duraznos (Peaches) Character Analysis

What do you think Esperanza would text to Marisol about Miguel?


Los Duraznos (Peaches) Discussion Questions

5. Isabel was desperate to be the Queen of May, but was unsure that she would get it because it is normally given to a white child who has nicer clothes. Isabel did not get to be the queen. Do you think she was silly to hope for it? Why or why not?

6. Miguel is replaced by men who will work for less, but are not as skilled. He is forced to do hard labor instead of what he is good at. Then, he and Esperanza have a terrible argument. What do you think made Miguel leave? What do you think is doing and where did he go?


7. Esperanza gives her doll from Papa to Isabel to take to school. Think about Esperanza’s experience on the train with the doll. How has Esperanza changed? Do you think being in the camp has helped or hurt her? Explain.

8. What do you believe happened to Esperanza’s money orders? What would you have done in her situation?


Predictions Page


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Vocabulary: Las Uvas Find these words in Las Uvas and use context clues to make your own definition of the word. Draw a quick picture of each word.





11. Why was Esperanza mad at Miguel?

Esperanza was mad at Miguel because he had to have taken the money orders. .

12. What fruit did the women have to sort? The women sorted peaches, plums & nectarines.

13. What is Esperanza’s favorite fruit and why?

Esperanza loved the elephant-heart plums because they were tangy and sweet at the same time.

14. What does Alfonso come to tell Esperanza?

Alfonso tells Esperanza that Miguel is coming and wants her to meet him in Los Angeles at the train station.

15. Is Esperanza excited to see Miguel? Why or

why not? Esperanza is not excited, she wants to be angry at him.

16. What is Mama’s reaction to the surprise? Mama is so happy. She cries. 17. Describe how Abuelita traveled to the camp. Senor Rodriguez and Miguel

came and got Abuelita in the middle of the night so that Tio Luis would not find out. 18. How did Esperanza tell Abuelita her story? Esperanza told Abuelita her

story by the seasons of the fruit and vegetables. 19. What did Esperanza ask Miguel for her birthday? Why did she want

this gift?

Esperanza asks Miguel to drive her to the foothills because she wanted to listen to the heartbeat of the land.

20. What was Esperanza’s big realization? Esperanza realized that no matter what happened to her, she would not lose her family, and that is what matters most.



4. Miguel did not bring Esperanza back her money orders. What did he bring her instead? Is this a better or worse gift? Why?

5. Did Abuelita’s response to the family’s living condition surprise you or not? What do you know about Abuelita that helped you?


6. Compare and contrast Esperanza’s last birthday to this birthday.



In the following space, write a letter to Esperanza, and tell her how you feel about her and what she has gone through. ___________________________________________________________________________________________

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End of Book Activities The chapter titles in Esperanza Rising are the names of fruits and vegetables. Each fruit or vegetable appears in that chapter and symbolizes something important. Write about each fruit or vegetable in the chart below. . (Part of this is in the last chapter when Esperanza is talking to Abuelita about her story. I usually have students work in groups/pairs and then have a small group discussion about it.)

Chapter Title/Food

How does the food appear in the story?

What does the fruit symbolize?

Uvas

Papayas

Higos

Guayabas

Melones

Cebollas

Almendras

Ciruelas

Papas

Aguacates

Esparragos

Duraznos

Uvas


End of Book Activities The first and last chapters are named with the same fruit- grapes. Why do you think the author chose to name these chapters the same title? ______________________________________________________________________

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