My Favorite Chaperone Flashcards

Maya's Reaction and Family Background

• Maya initially fears trouble when summoned to the office.
• Her brother, Nurzhan, was suspended for fighting, prompting the call.
• The school was unable to reach their mother, leading to Maya being contacted.
• Maya's mother works as a house cleaner, while her father is employed as a taxi driver.

Impact of Family Dynamics

• Maya missed her gymnastics meet due to her brother's issues.
• Cultural conflict arises as the family navigates American societal norms.
• In Kazakhstan, fighting is seen as a conflict involving the entire family.

Internal and External Conflicts

• Major conflicts include man vs. society over children's freedoms, and man vs. man as Maya seeks permission for the school dance.
• Maya lies during translation to protect her father and avoid blame for her brother's behavior.

Narrative Structure Insights

• Exposition sets the stage in America with Maya's family adjusting to their new lives.
• Rising action involves Nurzhan's suspension and Maya's confrontation with their father.
• Climax occurs when Nurzhan finds Maya's dance permission slip and agrees to be her chaperone.
• Falling action features Maya attending the dance, aided by her mother's gifts and Nurzhan's support.
• Resolution highlights Maya's happiness and her parents' gradual acceptance of American culture.

Changes and Language Notes

• Following her mother’s injury, Maya assumes additional family responsibilities, including cooking.
• Key vocabulary includes "immigrate" (to move to a new country), "sponsor" (support for admission), "stun" (shock or daze), "dispatcher" (vehicle scheduling), "scuffle" (disorderly fight), and "whimper" (soft cry).