3.3: Amy Tan's "Mother Tongue"
- Page ID
- 189899
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Directions
Here, you will find the readings "Mother Tongue" by Amy Tan.
The articles are .docx. file or posted on a website. I recommend either printing it our, or annotating the digital copy on your computer, or taking notes on the story on a separate piece of paper.
While reading the articles, keep these questions/ideas in mind:
- What is identity?
- What aspect of identity does Tan discuss?
- How does Tan's experiences with racism change her?
- How does Tan's experiences with language define her?
- What is her "mother's tongue?" What does it mean to her?
- How does education shape Tan?
- How does Tan's refusal to listen to stereotypes make her into the person that she is today?
Essay Topic
As a reminder, your essay topic is: How are identities shaped/constructed? What factors shape the authors identity? What factors shape your own?
(Example: "Identities are constructed through overcoming obstacles, becoming in-touch with one's culture, having a connection to one's family, and by accepting oneself for who they are." OR "Identities are shaped by our family, culture, religion, and education")
Video Lecture-"Mother Tongue- 00:06:15
CC Shared by https://english.washington.edu/sites/english/files/documents/ewp/teaching_resources/amy_tan_s_mother_tongue.pdf