Exploring Chapters 11 and 12 of Esperanza Rising

The transcript describes the struggles of Esperanza and her community during a time of labor strikes. The strikers, organized and determined, aim to disrupt the work to pressure the growers. Esperanza is torn between her need to work to support her family and the strikers' cause. The situation escalates when immigration officials conduct a sweep, deporting many strikers. Esperanza faces a moral dilemma when she encounters Marta, a striker in hiding, and decides to help her despite the risks. The narrative highlights the challenges faced by immigrant workers and the complexities of their situation.

Why were Esperanza and her neighbors worried at the beginning of the asparagus season?

• They were worried about the quality of the asparagus.

• They didn't like the taste of asparagus.

• They were concerned about losing their jobs.

• They were afraid of the high temperatures.

Why did the strikers want to slow down the workers?

• To make friends with the workers.

• To increase their own wages.

• To affect the growers and create change.

• To get more time off work.

What did the strikers do to disrupt the work on the first day of packing?

• They set fire to the fields.

• They handed out free food.

• They shouted and threw rocks.

• They helped pack the asparagus.

What did the company do to protect the workers from the strikers?

• They moved them to a different location.

• They gave them weapons.

• They increased their wages.

• They hired guards to protect them.

How did the strikers' tactics become more dangerous over time?

• They began helping the workers.

• They stopped shouting and became silent.

• They hid dangerous items in the asparagus crates.

• They started working with the police.

What did the strikers hide in the asparagus crates to scare the workers?

• Letters of support.

• Money and gifts.

• Rats, snakes, and razor blades.

• Flowers and chocolates.

What was Esperanza's reaction when she saw the immigration officials conducting a sweep?

• She was scared and wanted to hide.

• She decided to help Marta hide.

• She was relieved and happy.

• She ignored the situation.

What did Esperanza do to help Marta during the immigration sweep?

• She hid her in a corner and gave her an apron and asparagus.

• She called the police for help.

• She told Marta to run away quickly.

• She gave her money to escape.

What did Esperanza reflect on at the end of the day?

• The beauty of the asparagus fields.

• The delicious food they had for dinner.

• The unfairness of deporting people who had never lived in Mexico.

• The kindness of the immigration officials.

What did Esperanza hope for Marta and her mother at the end of the story?

• That they would join the strikers again.

• That they would find new jobs.

• That they would be together and safe.

• That they would leave the country.