Dreaming in Cuban

Lesson 5
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ELA

Unit 5

11th Grade

Lesson 5 of 31

Objective


Explain how Garcia uses tone to characterize Pilar.

Contrast views on Communism.

Readings and Materials


  • Book: Dreaming in Cuban by Christina Garcia  pp. 25 – 34 — "Pilar Puente"

  • Article: “The Rise and Fall of Karl Marx” by Mike Kubic 

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Target Task


Question 1

Which of the following best describes Pilar’s overall tone?

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Sample Response

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Question 2

Based on p. 26, explain Celia’s, Lourdes’s, and Pilar’s views on Communists.

Question 3

What is the relationship between the Marx article and the chapter? Explain using evidence from both sources.

Key Questions


Pilar

  • How does the point of view shift on p. 25?
  • What is Pilar doing on p. 25?
  • Annotate for specific diction Pilar uses to describe her parents and her life throughout this chapter.
  • What does Pilar hope for on p. 25?
  • How does Lourdes view Communists according to p. 26? Compare this with Celia’s views on Communists.

Manifesto

  • How does the author characterize Marx in the first five paragraphs?
  • According to paragraph 10, how did Marx and Engels characterize the struggle between the bourgeois and the proletariat?
  • What does the manifesto predict will ultimately happen?
  • What is Marx’s position on the bourgeoisie?
  • What was the manifesto’s main impact?

Notes


  • Pilar can be read at home before class (she is more interesting and accessible than some of the characters) if necessary.
  • It is important for students to note that the point of view changes from third person limited to first person limited here.

Next

Analyze and explain the symbolism of Celia’s pearl drop earrings. 

Lesson 6
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