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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. In chapter five, which movie is referenced?

2. What is the name of the City College program in which Alice teaches under-prepared students?

3. What is Alice's phrase for living in surroundings that are less than nice?

4. Why does Alice buy a fur coat?

5. Which one of the following statements is true?

Short Essay Questions

1. In chapter six, explain Calvin Trillin's theory about the person who makes out the mortgage check in a marriage.

2. Why does Alice believe that "Herbie" deserves to be paid more than what he originally quoted for his contracting services?

3. What is the SEEK program? Why is it important to Alice?

4. Describe the Trillins' trip to Japan. What does their disagreement say about their marriage?

5. What is Alice's attitude toward spending money?

6. Explain the Alice Tax.

7. True or false: Alice shies away from taboo subjects. Explain your answer.

8. According to Calvin Trillin, what makes a person an intellectual?

9. Compare Calvin Trillin's father to Alice's.

10. Describe what Alice means when she says that someone "doesn't have a nice life."

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay in which you discuss the Trillin family mottos of "Pull Up Your Socks" and "No Kvetching". What do these mottos say about their values? In what ways does Alice live her life in accordance with these mottos?

Essay Topic 2

In what ways does Alice express her gratitude throughout her lifetime? What reasons does she give for being grateful? Be sure to address the following:

• How does her sense of gratitude impact others in her life?

• Do you agree with Alice's assessment that she is a lucky person?

Cite examples from the book in your response.

Essay Topic 3

Write about the messages in this memoir about parenting.

Part 1) Does Calvin Trillin agree with his wife Alice about the importance of attending their children's school plays and eating dinner together? Why or why not?

Part 2) To what extent does Alice's parenting style differ from that of her husband?

Part 3) Why does Trilllin spend so much time on the subject of parenting in About Alice?

Part 4) Trillin provides brief glimpses into the points of view of Abigail and Sarah. What do their statements say about the parenting they receive?

Cite examples from the book in your response.

(see the answer keys)

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