Answer:
D). To support the idea that Alfonso does not always appreciate his family.
Step-by-step explanation:
Characterization is elucidated as the process through which the authors reveal the personality(appearance and traits) of a character. It assists the readers to understand a character and relate him/her to the series of events effectively.
In the given excerpt, Soto involves characterization of Alfonso's mother through various descriptions like 'his mother clipped coupons, kept a vegetable garden, shopped at Penney's' to reinforce the idea that Alfonso does not always appreciate his family. But he also critiques them the other times as he valued the outer beauty or appearance more than the inner purity of soul. Thus, this instance substantiates this claim yet he later realizes when breaks the chain of his bike that 'all that matters is the inner beauty.' Therefore, option D is the correct answer.