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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 was Hall's first partner when he began his climbing operation?

2. How many camps are above Base Camp, according to Krakauer's description of the mountain?

3. Who looked to be the strongest, but is worn out by the quick pace at the start?

4. What is the cruising altitude of the plane that makes Krakauer realize how absurd it seems to climb that distance as it is so close to Everest's summit measurement?

5. Hall says, "I think it's pretty unlikely that we'll get through this season without something ______ happening up high."

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Krakauer describe Tenzing as saying about climbing Mount Everest?

2. Why does Doug Hansen stay behind while the rest of the climbers head up to Camp Three?

3. Describe the Icefall.

4. What do the Sherpas do in preparation for the climbers to begin the eventual ascent to the summit?

5. What phrase does Krakauer use to describe the people on the trip with him right now?

6. Describe the character of Rob Hall.

7. After whom was Mount Everest named after?

8. What does Krakauer notice in the snow as they are climbing up to Camp Two?

9. List some of the amenities the climbers have while at Base Camp.

10. How is Krakauer feeling when he arrives at Camp Two?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are female and male hikers up on Mount Everest, of all ages and abilities. That said, it seems the mix of hikers may also have contributed to some of the problems.

Part 1: List the female hikers that are described in the story by Krakauer.

Part 2: What are some of the ways the female hikers may have hurt their group's progress?

Part 3: What are some of the ways the male hikers may have hurt their group's progress?

Essay Topic 2

Giving into death must seem the easier route when you're stuck up on a mountain, waiting for someone to rescue you.

Part 1: Which hikers were stranded on the mountain while they waited for help?

Part 2: In what ways did they try to survive and to live through the night?

Part 3: What are some other ways hikers might have been able to keep themselves moving and motivated to live?

Essay Topic 3

In reaching the summit, it can be a amazing feeling of accomplishment. But it almost seems anti-climatic when you realize you still have to go back down - and quickly.

Part 1: Describe how Krakauer feels when he reaches the summit. Are his feelings positive? Negative? Mixed?

Part 2: Do you think hikers might rethink their plans if they knew they only had a few moments to spend on the summit itself? Why or why not?

Part 3: What might you do in the few moments you'd spend at the top of Everest?

(see the answer keys)

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