These prompts can be used for in-class discussion, exploratory free-writing, or reflection homework before or after reading the play.

Personal Response Prompt

1. What are your passions and Future Plans? Have you experienced any obstacles in your journey to make your dreams a reality? If so, what steps did you take to overcome them?

Teaching Suggestion: Encourage students to write about something they are passionate about, as well as how their passions inform their future goals. If this prompt is given after reading, connect the students’ responses to Julia’s Future Plans and goals in the book, as well as the steps she took to make her dreams a reality.

2. Think about yourself and your family members. Are you similar to or different from any members of your family? Explain. Do other people ever compare you to another family member?

Teaching Suggestion: Given the personal nature of the prompt, students may feel more comfortable answering in the form of a personal response rather than in a class discussion. If this prompt is given after reading, ask students to consider how Julia was frequently compared to Olga by Amá, as well as how she was compared to Amá by her extended family. This prompt can tie into the Full Essay question on perfection.