3.3: Amy Tan's "Mother Tongue"

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Jan 5, 2023
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- 3.2: Julian Baggini's "Is there a real you?"
- 3.4: Anne Lamott's "Shitty First Drafts"

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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")

"Mother Tongue" by Amy Tan.docx

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