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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. Who is Ralston's best friend that climbs his first "fourteener" with him?

2. What happens to Ralston's friendships after the avalanche?

3. Indian Ed is suspected to go to what state after the gang's separation?

4. What does Ralston realize about his pinned limb?

5. What is the name of the first "fourteener" Ralston climbs with his friend?

Short Essay Questions

1. Although Ralston is trapped, why does he find it important to keep track of his bicycle lock key?

2. How does Ralston react spiritually to his entrapment?

3. What does the sheriff's posse think of the outlaws?

4. What does "Geologic Time Includes Now" mean?

5. In addition to the direct injury of his pinned arm, what other challenges does Ralston face from being stuck in one place?

6. What external events serve as a reminder to Ralston that he is lucky despite his risky adventures?

7. Describe the possible consequences Ralston faces if he decides to amputate his arm.

8. How is Jack Moore connected to Butch Cassidy?

9. Why is it be natural for Betty Darr to come up in Ralston's mind during his entrapment?

10. Describe Ralston's reaction to a black bear in his campground on his first solo overnighter?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Ralston constantly updates the video camera of his current situation. He assumes he dies in the canyon and expects a stranger one day finds his body and his camera. Explain the reasoning behind Ralston's need to constantly talk to the camera and detail his entrapment.

Essay Topic 2

Ralston is stuck in the canyon for six days and is generally calm, with some bouts of anger and frustration. However, when he sees the decomposition of his arm is greater than he realizes, he panics more than usual. Why? Ralston is mentally aware his arm is decomposing for several days. Describe what really sets him off.

Essay Topic 3

Ralston is an avid solo climber who seems to prefer to do many activities alone. Yet he has many friends to party with and plenty worry and search for him. Explore Ralston's relationships with his family and friends. Does he seem close to any in particular? Is there a mutual respect between Ralston and his friends? What holds the bond between Ralston and his companions?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,074 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample