Efrén Divided

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Vote for Efrén”

In this activity, students are asked to consider the traits, skills, goals, and experiences that will make Efrén a good president. The next step is to design and construct 3 posters to communicate his attributes to classmates at his school.

At the end of the novel, Efrén decides to run for school president. His friends and teachers encourage him to do so, but Efrén is also influenced in his decision by his parents and siblings, his new responsibilities, and his recent experiences. Reread the last chapter of the novel, looking carefully at Efrén’s decision-making process in agreeing to take on the role of president. Then think about the events that changed or taught Efrén over the course of the story.

Help Efrén show others that he will be an effective president. Design 3 posters that communicate his skills and experiences, his platform and objectives, and his request for help in his goals.

• Poster 1 should communicate to his fellow students Efrén’s skills, traits, and experiences that will help him lead. Brainstorm on scratch paper all the skills and traits Efrén had before his mother was deported along with his experiences once his household responsibilities increased.