Dreaming in Cuban

Lesson 24
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ELA

Unit 5

11th Grade

Lesson 24 of 31

Objective


Analyze and explain how Garcia further develops Pilar’s character.

Readings and Materials


  • Book: Dreaming in Cuban by Christina Garcia  pp. 175 – 181 — "Pilar (1978)"

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Target Task


Question 1

How has Pilar’s tone towards her mother changed from earlier in the novel? Use details from pp. 176–177.

Question 2

On pp. 178–179, Pilar implies that she favors a lifestyle that:

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Question 3

Discussion: Pilar talks about Lourdes’s need to embellish and create “half-truths.” Why does Lourdes feel the need to create her own truths? Is this fair? Would Pilar be more understanding of her mother if she knew her past? Should Lourdes tell Pilar? Why or why not?

Key Questions


  • Establish setting and narrator on p. 175.
  • How does Garcia use figurative language to convey Pilar’s views of religion? 
  • How are Celia and Pilar connected?
  • What does Lourdes believe about the “truth” according to Pilar on pp. 176–177?
  • What is the cause for celebration at the bottom of p. 177?
  • Track the imagery on p. 178.
  • What is Pilar’s opinion on experience?
  • What do Pilar and Ruben have in common? How are they different?
  • What decision did Pilar eventually make about school? Why is this ironic?
  • How does Pilar respond to Ruben’s cheating on her on p. 180?
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Lesson 23

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Lesson 25

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