1. How does Nana's perception of Adjoa's legs reflect traditional views on femininity and a woman's role in society? Provide specific examples from the text to support your answer.

Nana's perception of Adjoa's legs reflects deeply ingrained traditional views on femininity and the role of women in society. Nana criticizes Adjoa's legs for being too thin and long, believing that a woman's legs should have "meat on them" to support "solid hips" necessary for childbirth. This reflects a traditional view that a woman's value is tied to her physical ability to bear children. For example, Nana states, "If any female child decides to come into this world with legs, then they might as well be legs" and goes on to describe legs with good calves to support solid hips for childbearing. Nana’s emphasis on physical attributes related to reproduction underscores a societal expectation that a woman’s primary role is to become a mother.

​

2. Discuss the generational conflict between Nana and Maami regarding Adjoa's education. How do their differing views highlight broader societal changes? Use evidence from the story to illustrate your points.

The generational conflict between Nana and Maami is evident in their differing views on Adjoa's education. Nana believes that sending Adjoa to school is a waste of time, reflecting a more traditional view that prioritizes domestic roles for women over formal education. Conversely, Maami views education as a means of empowerment and liberation from the limitations imposed by traditional gender roles. Maami says she feels "locked into some kind of darkness" because she did not go to school, implying that education would provide Adjoa with opportunities that she herself never had. This conflict highlights broader societal changes where newer generations value education and personal development for women, challenging older, more restrictive norms.

​

3. Analyse Adjoa's internal conflict about expressing her thoughts and feelings. How does her fear of ridicule or dismissal impact her communication with her family? Cite specific passages that demonstrate this struggle.

Adjoa's internal conflict about expressing her thoughts stems from her fear of being ridiculed or dismissed by her family. She is acutely aware that her thoughts might either be laughed at or dismissed as inappropriate. This fear is demonstrated when she states, "It is always difficult to decide whether to keep quiet and not say any of the things that come into my head, or say them and get laughed at." Her communication struggle is further illustrated when she tries to talk to Nana, who often responds by laughing uncontrollably or telling Adjoa never to repeat what she said. For example, when Adjoa takes time to figure something out and shares it with Nana, Nana responds, "Adjoa, you say what?" and often ends up laughing until she cries. This consistent reaction discourages Adjoa from expressing herself, leading her to internalize her thoughts and feelings.

​

4. In what ways does Adjoa's success in sports challenge the traditional expectations set by her family, particularly Nana? How does this achievement change Nana's perception of Adjoa? Provide textual evidence to support your analysis.

Adjoa's success in sports directly challenges the traditional expectations set by her family, especially Nana, who viewed her legs as a liability. Adjoa winning the cup for the best all-round junior athlete demonstrates that her legs, despite being considered "too thin" and "too long," are strong and capable. This achievement forces Nana to reconsider her previous judgments. The shift in Nana's perception is evident when she begins to wash and iron Adjoa's school uniform herself, a sign of newfound pride. After Adjoa wins the cup, Nana's change is further highlighted when she carries the cup on her back, akin to how precious things are carried, and even mutters to herself, "Thin legs can also be useful." This acknowledgment marks a significant transformation in Nana's understanding and acceptance of Adjoa's capabilities beyond traditional expectations.

​

5. Examine the role of education in the story. How does Maami's desire for Adjoa to go to school contrast with Nana's views? What does this contrast reveal about the potential for education to transform individual lives and societal norms? Use examples from the text to support your answer.

Education plays a crucial role in the story as a symbol of empowerment and change. Maami's desire for Adjoa to attend school contrasts sharply with Nana's belief that it is a waste of time. Maami views education as a means to escape the "darkness" she feels due to her own lack of schooling. She hopes that Adjoa can learn to read, write, and perhaps calculate, which would open up new opportunities for her. In contrast, Nana dismisses the value of education for Adjoa, suggesting that with her legs, she might as well go to school, implying it is the only viable option given her perceived physical shortcomings. This contrast reveals the transformative potential of education, not only for individual lives but also for societal norms. Education represents a shift towards valuing intellectual and personal growth over traditional roles, illustrating a broader societal move towards gender equality and the empowerment of women.