Comprehension/Analysis Questions: “Eleven” by Sandra Cisneros Directions: After

Comprehension/Analysis Questions: “Eleven” by Sandra Cisneros
Directions: After reading the short story “Eleven” by Sandra Cisneros, answer the following
questions using complete sentences. Look back at the story to help you.
Comprehension
1. What is special about the day in this story?
2. What article of clothing causes difficulties?
3. What must Rachel do at the end of math period?
4. How is the mix-up straightened out?
5. How does Rachel feel at the end of the story?
Critical Thinking
6. Explain how Rachel can be eleven, but also all her younger ages as well. [Interpret]
7. Why can’t Rachel speak up to tell Mrs. Price the sweater is not hers? [Infer]
8. Why does Rachel react so strongly to being given the sweater? [Draw Conclusions]
9. Why does Rachel say the cake will be “too late”? [Interpret]
10. Why do you think the incident with the sweater affects Rachel so powerfully? [Infer]
—Rachel’s feelings about turning 11
—her description of the sweater
—Mrs. Price’s response to Rachel
11. Does Mrs. Price treat Rachel unfairly, or does she just make an honest mistake? Explain.
[Infer]
12. In what ways do past years stay with a person through time? [Interpret]
Literary Focus: Characterization
Characterization is the art of creating and developing a character. There are two types of
characterization: direct and indirect. In direct characterization, writers make direct
statements about a character’s appearance and personality. In indirect characterization,
character’s traits are revealed through their own words and actions, as well as through the
comments and actions of other characters.
13. In “Eleven,” is Rachel’s character revealed more through direct or indirect
characterization? Explain.