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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What comparison does Catherine make of herself and the new teacher?

2. What brings joy to Matty?

3. Who is Cassie's older brother?

4. What does Aunt Lucy do with her beautiful city dresses?

5. In what month is Mr. Hall to be married?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the reason for Mr. Hall's delayed return from Boston?

2. How do the characters begin to find joy again after Cassie's death?

3. Describe how the boys in the class revolt against the new teacher's severe punishment measures.

4. Describe the arrival of Ann and Daniel.

5. What are the circumstances that precipitate Catherine's leaving home?

6. What name does Catherine feel comfortable calling Ann?

7. What is the emotional turning point for Ann and Catherine's relationship?

8. How is the theme of trust exhibited between Asa and Catherine regarding his poem for Sophy?

9. How does the author use flashbacks to help communicate Catherine's feelings about the death of her mother and baby brother?

10. How does Catherine experience change related to the addition of the two new family members?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the discord between Uncle Jack and Mr. Hall on the topic of runaway slaves. What were their opposing positions? How does Catherine get caught between what she believes and what her father believes on the topic?

Essay Topic 2

A GATHERING OF DAYS is a classic coming of age story. What does that classification entail? Why does this story fit into this category? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

There are several events of foreshadowing in the book. Define foreshadowing. Cite at least two situations in the story that serve as foreshadowing.

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