Heartbeat

Why is Esperanza once again able to hear the heartbeat of the earth?

Marta

Esperanza makes a decision to assist Marta.  What does this reveal about Esperanza's character?

Proverb

He who falls today may rise tomorrow.  Explain the meaning of the Mexican proverb.

Pam Munoz Ryan

Write a question for the author, Pam Munoz Ryan.

Striking

Do you think the farm workers could improve their lives without striking?  Why or why not?

Groceries

Why does Miguel shop for groceries at a store that is far away from the camp?

Change

What does the change in Esperanza's hands symbolize?

While reading the

Obstacles

How do people overcome obstacles?

Miguel and the Railroad

While thinking about everything that has been happening in the lives of the characters, why is the railroad job so important to Miguel?

Themes

What themes are emerging in Esperanza Rising?

Your Impressions

What are your impressions of the novel Esperanza Rising?

Changes

Martha and the Strikers want to change conditions for the workers. Tell about a situation in society that you would like to change.

Question to Author

Write a question for the author, Pam Munoz Ryan.

Metaphor

What is the meaning of the following metaphor?  What is being compared?  
Would she [Esperanza] ever escape this valley she was living in?  This valley of Mama being sick?

GREAT DAY OF BLOGGING!!!

Welcome to the GREAT DAY OF BLOGGING!!   

Why do you think the author uses the names of fruits and vegetables as the titles of the book's chapters?

Las Papas/Potatoes

What is the meaning of the following simile? What is being compared?

It had settled on the world, covering everything like a suede.

Situations

How do people adapt to different situations?

Crocheted Blanket

Las Papas/Potatoes

Why does Esperanza continue working on the crocheted blanket Abuelita had begun?

After the Dust Storm

After the dust storm, Momma is the only one of the workers in the cabin to become ill. How does her illness affect Esperanza?

TEACHERS

Reminder:  Please remember that the pages for the first annual eBook with student work is due by this Friday.  Please let us know what we can do to help.

Thank you.

Dust Storm

Students, What might the dust storm symbolize?

Things Can Change

Esperanza's mother tells her: Esperanza, if we had stayed in Mexico and I had married Tio Luis, we could have had one choice. To be apart and miserable.  Here, we have two choices. To be together and miserable or to be together and happy.  Mija, we have each other and Abuelita will come. How would she want you to behave?  I choose to be happy. So which will you choose?" (page 104)  
How did Esperanza change after her mother said this?  What advice has a friend or family member give that has helped you?  Please explain.