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

Short Answer Questions

1. Beatrice speaks with this person during her second phone call in Act 2:

2. What happens to Tillie's pet in Act 2?

3. Per Zindel's stage directions, the spotlight "clings" to which character at the end of Act 2?

4. What happens to Ruth at the end of Act 2?

5. What does Beatrice do immediately after completing her second phone call in Act 2?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the concept of triumph in the face of adversity in Zindel's play.

a) Which character overcomes adversity? In what way is this achieved?

b) Give examples of some of the obstacles that this character faces throughout the course of the play.

c) What can be attributed to this character's ability to overcome adversity? How does this person cope and ultimately prevail despite difficult circumstances?

Essay Topic 2

Explore the mother-daughter relationships in Zindel's play.

a) Is Beatrice a good mother? Why or why not?

b) Is Beatrice a traditional mother? Why or why not?

c) Does Beatrice express love for her daughters? If so, how?

d) Is Beatrice a role model to them? Why or why not?

e) How do Tillie and Ruth relate to Beatrice? Are they rebellious? Obedient?

f) Do Ruth and Tillie express love for Beatrice? If so, how?

Essay Topic 3

There are several characters whose names are mentioned at certain points in time, but do not appear physically in the scenes (for example, Mr. Goodman, Mr. Berg, Miss Hanley, and Nanny's daughter). Discuss the ways in which these characters serve to further the play's overall plot and themes.

(see the answer keys)

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