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Comparing Texts Portfolio

Directions: Read the two stories Amy’s Metaphor and From Scratch. Take notes about the
similarities and differences between the characters, plot, theme, etc. Use your notes to answer the
questions below. Be sure to answer the questions in complete sentences or points may be taken
off.
Amy’s Metaphor by Elisa Oh
1. What is Amy’s assignment, and why does she struggle to complete the second part?

2. How are the events of the plot of Amy’s Metaphor organized, and what point of view is it
written in?

3. What is Amy upset about, and how does her view of herself change by the end? Support your
answer with evidence from the text (linked here).

From Scratch by Susie Castellano
4. Why does Priya feel sad in the kitchen, and how does her relationship with her mother change
throughout the story?

5. How are the events of the plot of From Scratch structured, and what point of view is it written
in?

6. How does Priya’s perspective change by the end of the story? Support your answer with
evidence from the text (linked here).

Compare/Contrast Both Stories

7. How do both stories mix present and past events in their plot structure?

8. How do the main characters’ struggles with identity and emotions shape their experiences?

9. In what ways do Amy and Priya grow by the end of their stories, and how do their final
moments show this change?

I enjoyed reading ___________more because the_______. My attention was captured
when________. I was able to relate to the character when she ______. My favorite part of the story was
____. I would recommend this story to a friend because_____. But make it simple

1 answer

Sure! Here are your notes and responses based on the stories "Amy's Metaphor" and "From Scratch."

Amy’s Metaphor by Elisa Oh

  1. Amy’s Assignment: Amy's assignment is to write a metaphor that reflects her feelings and identity. She struggles to complete the second part because she finds it challenging to accurately express her feelings about herself and her experiences.

  2. Plot Organization and Point of View: The events of "Amy’s Metaphor" are organized chronologically, following Amy’s thought process and emotional journey. The story is written in the first person, allowing readers to closely experience Amy’s internal struggles.

  3. Amy’s Upset and Personal Change: Amy is upset about her feelings of inadequacy and not fitting in. By the end of the story, her view of herself changes as she begins to accept her uniqueness. Evidence shows that she realizes that her experiences contribute to her identity, leading to a more positive self-image.

From Scratch by Susie Castellano

  1. Priya’s Sadness and Relationship Change: Priya feels sad in the kitchen because it reminds her of her mother, who has passed away. Throughout the story, her relationship with her mother evolves from mourning to cherishing her mother's memory, as she learns to cook her mother’s recipes and connect with her through food.

  2. Plot Structure and Point of View: The events of "From Scratch" are structured with flashbacks that intertwine Priya’s present cooking experience with memories of her mother. The story is told from a third-person limited point of view, focusing on Priya's thoughts and feelings.

  3. Priya’s Perspective Change: By the end of the story, Priya's perspective changes as she transitions from sadness to finding joy and comfort in cooking, which helps her feel closer to her mother. Evidence shows that she embraces cooking as a way to remember her mother, rather than just a reminder of her loss.

Compare/Contrast Both Stories

  1. Mixing Present and Past Events: Both stories blend present and past events by using flashbacks or reflections that provide insight into the characters’ emotional states. Amy reflects on her past experiences while writing her metaphor, and Priya’s memories of her mother surface as she cooks.

  2. Struggles with Identity and Emotions: Amy and Priya's struggles with identity and emotions profoundly shape their experiences. Amy's insecurities challenge her self-acceptance, while Priya’s grief affects her connection to her heritage. Both characters ultimately learn to navigate their feelings and emerge stronger.

  3. Growth of Amy and Priya: By the end of their stories, Amy and Priya both experience significant personal growth. Amy learns to appreciate her unique identity, while Priya finds solace in her memories through cooking. Their final moments highlight this change—Amy expresses her identity with confidence, and Priya embraces her mother’s legacy through food.

Personal Reflection: I enjoyed reading "From Scratch" more because the emotional connection to family resonated with me. My attention was captured when Priya began to cook her mother's recipes. I was able to relate to the character when she felt the mixture of sadness and joy in the kitchen. My favorite part of the story was when Priya finally embraces her mother's recipes, feeling her presence with her. I would recommend this story to a friend because it beautifully captures the complexities of loss and the healing power of food.