Instructions

After reading the Memoir, Getting Around, choose the Print command on your toolbar to print out this guide to record your responses and reflections about the topic.

Part A: The following Web-based activities will help you recall some of the information contained in the memoir you just read. To access an activity, click on the corresponding hyperlink.

1. Pop-Up: a terminology exercise.

2. Hangman: a vocabulary exercise.

Part B: The following questions ask you to identify and explain information contained in the memoir you just read.

1. What was the year and make of the first family car the Author describes? Explain the difficulty in starting the car.

Car:

Problem:

2. The Author describes 2 features of the first family car: a running board and a starter crank. What are these features? (NOTE: if you’re not sure, make a guess!)

Running board:

Starter crank:

3. Explain why the Author was able to get his driver’s license at age 15.

4. Describe at least 3 features of passenger trains during the 1930’s and 1940’s.

5. Explain how passenger trains were used during World War II.

Part C: After responding to these questions, be prepared to share your ideas in small groups or with the whole class.

a) What is your first memory of your family car? How many cars has your family owned, and how have they differed from each other? Why do you think cars have been an important part of family life in America?

b) Reflect on your first bicycle and note memories you have of learning to ride a bike. How do your memories compare to the Author’s? Why is riding a bicycle an important rite of passage for most young people in America?

c) Compare the Author’s description of train travel with any long trips you have taken. How has the mode of transportation changed? How does the means of transportation influence the way we travel? What are some nostalgic memories of your own about taking far-away trips?

NOTE: Even if you have never taken a long trip, you can still imagine what it will be like when you do!

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