Esperanza Rising: Character and Theme Analysis
An 8th-grade ELA worksheet focusing on character development, themes, and literary devices in Pam Muñoz Ryan's 'Esperanza Rising'.
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Esperanza Rising: Character and Theme Analysis
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Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Refer to the novel 'Esperanza Rising' by Pam Muñoz Ryan as needed.
1. At the beginning of the novel, what is Esperanza's greatest concern?
Her upcoming birthday fiesta.
The family's financial struggles.
Finding a suitable husband.
Her father's health.
2. What significant event forces Esperanza and her family to leave El Rancho de las Rosas?
A devastating earthquake.
Her father's death and subsequent loss of their land.
A severe drought that ruined their crops.
Escaping political unrest.
3. The primary setting for the first part of Esperanza's life is in Aguascalientes, Mexico.
4. After leaving Mexico, Esperanza and her family travel to in California.
5. Describe how Esperanza's perception of wealth and class changes throughout the novel. Provide at least two specific examples from the text.
6. Mama fully recovers from Valley Fever by the end of the novel.
True
False
7. Miguel's dream is to become a successful railroad worker.
True
False
8. Analyze the theme of 'hope' or 'resilience' as it is developed throughout 'Esperanza Rising'. How do different characters demonstrate this theme, and what message does the author convey about its importance?
Use the words below to complete the sentences.
9. Many workers in the camps, including Esperanza's family, pick to earn money.
10. The workers considered a to demand better wages and working conditions.