Discuss the structure of Tan’s essay “Mother Tongue.” Note how the essay blurs the line between nonfiction essay and narrative form. Why do you think Tan chose this structure? How do you think such a form influences the development of ideas in the essay? Do you think it is an effective form? Why or why not?

Read the excerpt from act iii of the importance of being earnest. jack. [in a pathetic voice.] miss prism, more is restored to you than this hand-bag. i was the baby you placed in it. miss prism. [amazed.] you? jack. [embracing her.] yes . . mother! miss prism. [recoiling in indignant astonishment.] mr. worthing! i am unmarried! jack. unmarried! i do not deny that is a serious blow. but after all, who has the right to cast a stone against one who has suffered? cannot repentance wipe out an act of folly? why should there be one law for men, and another for women? mother, i forgive you. [tries to embrace her again.] what is the best conclusion that can be drawn about jack, based on his words and actions in this excerpt? he has a tendency to be rude. he is inclined to show his emotions. he has a tendency to be gullible. he is inclined to be unresponsive.

Write two paragraphs describing how your chosen theme relates to the characterization and setting in "the yellow wallpaper." one paragraph should focus on characterization, and the other should focus on setting. back up your ideas in each paragraph by summarizing the story in a way that emphasizes the most important details.

Choose the word that best describes the relationship between mini and her father at the beginning of the story. a. distant b. silly c. loving d. uncommunicative