Celebrating Cinco De Mayo: CommonLit

PART A: What is the central idea of the text?

• The Battle of Puebla successfully ended the Franco-Mexican War.

• Mexico’s debt during the 1800s had a negative impact on the country and its culture.

• President Juárez created Cinco de Mayo and is responsible for the holiday’s traditions.

• Cinco de Mayo has changed over time but continues to be an important celebration of Mexican culture.

PART B: Which detail from the text best supports the answer to Part A?

• “The treasury was nearly bankrupt after fifteen years of civil war and two years fighting the United States.” ( Paragraph 3)

• “Cinco de Mayo stands as an important day for Mexican people around the world.” ( Paragraph 8)

• “Cinco de Mayo became a major Mexican American holiday because of Chicano activists in the 1960s.” ( Paragraph 9)

• “Many students learn about the holiday in school and through public festivals.” ( Paragraph 10)

Which quotation best describes the relationship between the Battle of Puebla and modern-day celebration of Cinco de Mayo?

• “The Battle of Puebla is still remembered today with Cinco de Mayo.” ( Paragraph 8)

• “They were inspired by how the Mexican soldiers overcame great odds in the Battle of Puebla.” ( Paragraph 9)

• “These events highlight parts of Mexican culture that come from Puebla.” ( Paragraph 10)

• “It started as a battle in Puebla and later became a holiday about Mexican culture.” ( Paragraph 12)

How does the author support the idea that Cinco de Mayo is growing in popularity across the United States?

• The author explains that Cinco de Mayo is now celebrated by people who are not from Mexican descent.

• The author provides examples of how Mexican Americans currently celebrate the holiday.

• The author shares a personal experience from a recent Cinco de Mayo celebration.

• The author describes cultural traditions that are rooted in Puebla history.

What is the meaning of the word “ragtag” in paragraph 5?

• troubled

• prepared

• disorganized

• independent

What is the author’s purpose in paragraph 10?

• to persuade readers to celebrate cultural holiday

• to highlight the different ways Cinco De Mayo is celebrated

• to provide readers with an understanding of Cinco de Mayo

• to argue the importance of remembering the Battle of Puebla