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

Short Answer Questions

1. Abel was going home to the ______________ for a year or two, according to the plan he had.

2. Francisco's girlfriend saw the reaction in #165 and she ___________ after the birthing process was over.

3. Abel came upon other _______ and at the first sign of dawn they all set off, and even though Abel fell, he got up and kept on going.

4. When Ben was not in a hurry on a delivery with his truck, he would stop by and pick up _____________.

5. Francisco smeared the substance on his colt because they had both _____________ in this experience.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The family connections in this story are compelling, though they might not always be positive.

Part 1: How does family play a role in Abel's life?

Part 2: Does the author seem to believe family is important? Why or why not?

Part 3: Why do you think Abel's father was not a part of his life?

Essay Topic 2

The memories that flood back into Abel's mind give the reader a sense of who he was when he was younger, but also a sense of who is is in the present day.

Part 1: Why do you think Momaday decided to write about Abel through the memories he has?

Part 2: Why are memories a good way to get to know someone?

Part 3: Do you think the story would have been stronger if the life story of Abel had been told in a more conventional way? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

The rain is present at various points in the story, points where there are significant changes for the characters.

Part 1: Why is rain present at the time when Angela and Abel make love?

Part 2: Why do you think rain occurs when Abel leaves Los Angeles to go back to Walatowa?

Part 3: Why is rain present after Francisco dies?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 326 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample