Worksheet

Judith Ortiz Cofer, “First Love”

1. Why are there quotations around the word “American” in paragraph 2?

2. In the first line of paragraph 5, the author chooses the word “willed” in the first sentence. What connotation does this word have and what is the impact of it?
3. In the last sentence of paragraph 5, the author uses the phrase, “At this crucial time!” What is she referring to and why could this line be considered ironic?

4. In paragraph 6, she refers to her crush as a secret. What clues are there in the story that her crush is aware of her feelings? List 2 text details.
5. In paragraph 13, the author chooses to use the word “gluttonously” in her description. What is implied by this word choice?
6. In paragraph 13, the author uses the phrase “killing power” to describe the eyes of her secret love. Explain how this phrase helps the reader understand her crush.

7. In paragraph 14, the author uses the phrase “relish the miracle” to describe the interaction she had with her crush during the extravaganza. Why do you think the author choose
this humorous choice of words?

8. “If love were easy, life would be too simple” is the closing line of the story. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Explain your answer.