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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Once on the train, how does Mama manage to keep busy?
(a) She writes in a journal.
(b) She prays with a rosary.
(c) She crochets.
(d) She knits.

2. Why couldn't Miguel work on the railroad in Mexico?
(a) He did not have citizen papers.
(b) He had no recommendations.
(c) He could not pass the test.
(d) He did not have the required lever.

3. What is in the trunk that the visitors have left in Chapter 3?
(a) War souvenirs.
(b) Old newspapers.
(c) Belongs of Papa.
(d) Clothes for Esperanza and Ramona.

4. In Chapter 5, what is the name of the town from which Mama says they are from?
(a) Los Gatos.
(b) Mexicali.
(c) Los Ranchos.
(d) Aguascalientes.

5. What has happened to Papa's belt buckle since Papa's death?
(a) Mama has it with her religious statues.
(b) Esperanza has it.
(c) Abuelita keeps it with her rosary.
(d) Tio Luis wears it.

Short Answer Questions

1. If Ramona were to stay in Mexico and remain single, what would be her life situation?

2. When the traveling group reaches the wagon, what is it that Hortensia predicts that Tio Luis has already bragged about?

3. Who made the first cut at harvest time?

4. What was the treat Esperanza remembers from an earlier time in Zacatecas?

5. Who does Esperanza say she will marry some day?

Short Essay Questions

1. In what way is the character of Tio Luis a stock character, in this case, the villain?

2. How does Esperanza'a reaction to her fellow travelers on the family trip from Mexico to California compare or contrast to her mother's reaction to them?

3. How does Senor Rodriguez's gift of papayas renew the grief Esperanza already feels for the loss of her father?

4. When all are planning to work in California, Esperanza says she will work, and everyone laughs. What tone did the author intend for this laugh?

5. In what way is the ruined rose garden a symbol?

6. Every chapter is named after a fruit, and that fruit has a role in the action of the chapter. This chapter is "The Guavas." What role do the guavas play in the action of Chapter 4?

7. Mama seems quick to interpret Esperanza's cut finger as a omen involving her husband. Why might she be preoccupied with his safety at this time?

8. What disappointment does MIguel face on his first day at the camp in California?

9. When Esperanza talks with her uncles in her father's office, why does the condition of her father's desk bother her?

10. When Esperanza and Miguel get off the train at a temporary stop, Miguel explains a scenario that is apparently inexplicable to Esperanza. What is this scenario?

(see the answer keys)

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