Question

n two to three sentences, explain how the context of Quindlen’s piece affects your understanding of the central idea. Use details from the op-ed in your response.

Which Quindlen op-ed are you referring to? If you mean her post–9/11 piece "A Quilt of a Country," here are two sentences you can use:

Because Quindlen wrote the op‑ed in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, her emphasis on America’s fragile, improvised unity deepens the central idea that our diversity is also our strength; she underscores this by listing the many different peoples, faiths, and histories patched together into one nation. The traumatic context makes her plea for solidarity and tolerance feel urgent rather than theoretical, turning the image of a “quilt” into both a comfort and a call to care for the fragile bonds that hold the country together.
Sample Response: Knowing that Quindlen wrote the text in response to the attacks of September 11, I better understand her viewpoint that tragedy often unites American citizens. In addition, I understand how Quindlen wants to persuade readers to rethink the meaning and value of American identity.

What did you include in your response? Check all that apply.

a connection between context and the central idea
a connection between context and opinion
a connection between context and purpose

Answer 1

All three. The response links context (post‑9/11) to the central idea (tragedy unites Americans), to Quindlen’s opinion/viewpoint, and to her purpose (to persuade readers to rethink American identity).