Efren Divided Chapter 2 by Ernesto Cisneros Read aloud

Summary

The video script revolves around the journey of David and his friend Efren as they navigate the complexities of school life and a school election. David is running for school president and is confident, despite competition from Jennifer, a diligent and socially conscious student. Efren, who is more introverted, finds solace in the school library and discovers a deep connection with Jennifer through their shared love for books. Meanwhile, Efren's family faces a crisis when his mother is taken by immigration authorities, casting a shadow over his school life. The story explores themes of friendship, cultural identity, and the challenges faced by immigrant families, with Efren's experiences highlighting the emotional turmoil and resilience of a young person caught between two worlds.

Takeaways

• 🚴‍♂️ The boys, David and Efron, attend a school meeting for ASB presidential elections, showing David’s ambition and Efron’s supportive nature.
• 📚 Miss Salas decorates and organizes the school election posters, emphasizing her creativity and involvement in school activities.
• 🍞 The presence of freshly baked conchas at the meeting highlights cultural elements and Miss Salas's hospitality.
• 🗳️ The election is lightly attended, indicating low student engagement and setting up a direct competition between David and two other students, Jennifer and Han.
• 🏆 Jennifer is depicted as academically competitive and assertive, often challenging both peers and teachers.
• 👫 Efron’s quiet observation contrasts with David’s more casual and distracted approach, reflecting their different personalities.
• 📖 Efron finds solace in the school library, indicating his love for reading and a quieter environment compared to his friend David.
• 👨‍🏫 The story also touches on Mr. Garrett, a teacher who has seemingly become disenchanted over time, providing a glimpse into teacher burnout.
• 👩‍🎨 The campaign strategies discussed reveal school politics and the creativity students employ, like placing posters in bathroom stalls.
• 🤝 An encounter with Jennifer in the library shows her more personal side and introduces themes of identity and social justice.

Q & A

What is the main event that the students are preparing for in the story?

The main event that the students are preparing for is the ASB School elections.

Who is running for the position of school president?

David is running for the position of school president.

What is the name of the school leadership class that Miss Salas runs?

Miss Salas runs the ASB leadership class.

How does Efren feel about David's chances of winning the school presidency?

Efren believes that David has a good chance of winning due to his cool swag and carefree attitude.

What is the name of the teacher who is known to be strict and sent an entire class to the principal's office?

The teacher's name is Mr. Garrett.

What is the title of the book that Jennifer and Efren discuss in the library?

The title of the book they discuss is 'The House on Mango Street'.

Why does Jennifer decide to run for a position in the school election?

Jennifer decides to run for a position because she wants to make a difference, especially after watching a report on how undocumented families were being separated.

What is the name of Efren's mother?

Efren's mother's name is Amma.

What does the phrase 'we are seeds' mean in the context of the story?

The phrase 'we are seeds' is a Mexican saying that implies resilience and the ability to grow and thrive despite being buried or overlooked, reflecting Jennifer's and Efren's determination to make a difference.

What is the main reason for Efren's concern when he arrives home and finds the apartment empty?

Efren is concerned because his mother, Amma, is not home, and she usually cooks dinner. Additionally, the apartment is unusually empty and cold, indicating something might be wrong.

What does the acronym 'ICE' refer to in the story, and why is it feared by the characters?

The acronym 'ICE' refers to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It is feared by the characters because it is associated with the arrest and deportation of undocumented individuals, which could potentially separate families.

How does Donya Chana try to provide comfort to Efren and his siblings?

Donya Chana provides comfort by giving them warm chicken soup and assuring Efren that his father will help get Amma back.