Pre-Reading: My Brigadista Year

What does it mean when a book has a theme?

• The place where the story happens

• A message or lesson the author wants to share

• The name of the main character

• A type of food in the book

Based on the title My Brigadista Year, what do you predict might be a theme in the book?

• The importance of education

• The history of the United States

• The role of kings and queens

• A journey to space

A protagonist is the main character in a story. What do you think makes a strong protagonist?

• They always win every battle

• They never make mistakes

• They face challenges and grow from them

• They are always the smartest character

The Brigadistas were a group of young people sent to teach literacy in rural Cuba. Why do you think a young person might want to join a movement like this?

• To become rich and famous

• To help people and make a difference

• To go on vacation

• To avoid going to school

What is conflict in a story?

• A peaceful moment in the book

• The struggles or problems a character faces

• A place where the story happens

• The words spoken by a character

Based on what you know about history, what kind of challenges do you think the Brigadistas faced in Cuba?

• Learning a new language

• Teaching without books or supplies

• Dangerous travel and harsh living conditions

• All of the above

What is the climax of a story?

• The introduction of the characters

• The most intense or exciting moment

• The lesson the character learns

• The title of the book

Why is it important to understand a story’s rising action?

• It helps build suspense and explain character choices

• It tells you exactly how the book will end

• It always includes funny scenes

• It makes reading faster

Why is it important to quote from a book when discussing it?

• It makes you sound smart

• It helps prove your point with real evidence

• It means you memorized the book

• It lets you change the story’s meaning

Which of these is an example of a direct quote?

• The character said they felt happy.

• “I am so excited to start teaching!” Lora said.

• The book explains that Lora was nervous.

• Lora teaches people how to read.