Unit 3: The Breadwinner

Which statement best expresses the theme of this selection?

• It is important to love your home.

• It can be difficult to have courage in the face of challenges.

• The best way to express love is with food.

• It is important to keep your community clean.

What is Parvana’s primary concern about assuming the role of a boy?

• She is afraid that people will make fun of her.

• She is afraid that everyone will think she is really a boy.

• She is afraid that she will be recognized. 

• She is very angry about having to do her sister's job.

Read paragraphs 21-24. What inference can be made about Parvana?

• She is scared about cutting her hair.

• She is very excited to cut her hair.

• Being allowed to make her own choice helps her say yes.

• Parvana would prefer to get a perm.

In paragraph 30, why does Mother most likely ask Parvana if she wants to watch while she cuts her hair?

• To punish Parvana for resisting the idea

• To force Parvana to demonstrate her obedience

• To help Parvana to accept the idea 

• To teach Parvana how to cut hair

The description of Mother’s behavior while she cuts Parvana’s hair helps the reader understand that Mother —

• favors Nooria over Parvana

• does not care about her daughter feels

• is confused by Parvana's dress choice

• cares about how Parvana feels

Which synonym best matches the use of gingerly as it is used in paragraph 43?

• Warily, because Parvana feels unfamiliar with her hair 

• Guardedly, because Parvana doesn't want anyone to see her bald head

• Safely, because Parvana does not want to steal her hair

• Hesitantly, because Parvana wishes her hair was a different color

In the last paragraph of the story, why does Mother say, “Go to sleep, my son”?

• She misses Hossain and confuses Ali with him.

• She is tired and wishes the day would end.

• She is worrying about all her children.

• She things Hossain is tired

Which word best describe how Parvana feels while living under Taliban rule?

• angry

• invisible

• excited

• ashamed

In the story, Parvana’s haircut represents —

• happier times

• new responsibilities

• abandoned beliefs

• cultural traditions

The definition of fume is...

• feel or show displeasure or resentment

• feel or show joy

• to send smoke signals

• to run extremely fast