The Circuit

by Francisco Jimenez

Review

1. Why is Panchito upset about

the move to Fresno?

• Panchito does not like the thought of leaving familiar people and surroundings. He knows that he has months of very hard work ahead of him.

2. What conclusion can you draw about Papa from the following passage? When he finally chose the “Carcanchita,” he checked it thoroughly before driving it out of the car lot. He examined every inch of the car.

• He is a very careful man. He does not have money to waste, so he must be very careful with his purchase.

3. Why does Panchito not like field work?

Wet Sweat

Buzzing Insects Hot Dry DustField Work

The field work is boring, difficult, and exhausting.

4. Panchito and Roberto instinctively run and hide when the school bus approaches. What does this tell you about how often the boys have been doing this?

• They have to work instead of going to school.

5. Panchito is savoring the thought of starting the sixth grade. What is one other thing that he savors in the story?• Panchito is excited at the thought of learning to

play the trumpet.

6. Panchito keeps his head down so he does not have to face Roberto on the first day of school. Why is Panchito unable to face his brother?

• Panchito feels guilty that he is going to school while Roberto cannot.

7. Think about what happens to Panchito’s life when the family moves. How does the boy feel about moving?• Panchito dislikes

constantly moving from place to place because it keeps him from going to school for any length of time. He is always the new kid in school and never has time to learn or take part in new activities.

8. Think about how Panchito feels about school and learning. Why does he ask for help with his English?

• Panchito looks forward to going to school and learning. He wants to do his best in school and learn as much as he can.

9. Panchito becomes excited when Mr. Lema offers to teach him how to play the trumpet. How does this event highlight the theme of the story?• Playing the trumpet

represents excitement and possibility. However, Panchito feels unhappy when he comes home to find the boxes packed once again.

10. Cardboard boxes appear at the beginning of “The Circuit” and again at the end. How do these boxes support the theme of the story?• The boxes represent the constant moving

that Panchito’s family does, the cause of his unhappiness.

11. Panchito’s family is constantly moving from place to place. Panchito must work, so he cannot always go to school. When he does go to school, he never is able to stay for any length of time. How does Panchito’s life as a migrant worker affect his attitude toward

school?

11. Panchito appreciates education and does not take it for granted. He has never settled in one place, gone to the same school for very long, or made lasting friendships. His education is frequently interrupted and is difficult to obtain, making him appreciate it all the more. Panchito’s desire for extra help with English and his joy of learning music support this idea.

accompanied

• Went along with; joined

drone

• Continuous humming sound

enroll

• Place oneself on a register or list

instinctively

• Done automatically, without thinking

Carlos instinctively ducked when the ball came toward his face.

savoring

• Enjoying; tasting with delight