American History

Answer the following questions about the story.

Remember to include specific quotations (economically!) to support your answer:

1. In the first few paragraphs of the story, how does the writer use imagery and symbolism to establish the setting? What evidence does the narrator offer that it might be a happy or sad place?

2. Why do you think Ortiz-Cofer titles her story "American History"? What point is she trying to make about American history?

3. How are the students in Elena's class affected by the news of President Kennedy's death? How does their reaction contrast with that of the gym teacher? Why do you think the students' and teacher's reactions are so different and what does this say generally about how different people perceive the same experience?

4. In the denouement, what epiphany does Elena have and how is the snow used as a symbol? Use these terms in your answer.