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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. After Yvonne was arrested for selling heroin, where did Elaine spend two years?

2. In Chapter 14, what made someone an instant celebrity in Bedford Hills prison?

3. What celebrity joins the rally at Rockefeller Center on the 25th anniversary of the Rockefeller drug laws?

4. Who tells Elaine to "shut up, be quiet and listen" in Chapter 26?

5. Who says in Chapter 10, "I have to break the cycle."

Short Essay Questions

1. How did Apache cope with life in Apartment 13B?

2. Why did Elaine move into Apache's bedroom in Chapter 29?

3. By 1998, what changes had the Rockefeller drug laws had on the New York prison system?

4. Describe Sabrina.

5. Describe the appearance of Charlie, also known as George Deets.

6. What is Alfonso Camacho's background? Do you think Alfonso Camacho is a good parole officer? Why or why not?

7. In Chapter 20, what does Elaine see that she needs for Apartment 13B?

8. Describe Project Renewal.

9. What is Elaine's room at the YMCA like? Is it better than how she's been living?

10. Describe Jamel's appearance when Elaine visits him at Riker's Island.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In "Life on the Outside," the author presents a situation in which it is easier to remain in prison than to succeed out of prison. Stories of people returning to Bedford Hills Prison are told. Jamel's repeated history in prison is another example. Do you agree with the book's message that it is easier in prison than out for the offender? Why or why not? Support your answer with examples.

Essay Topic 2

Soon after her release from prison, Elaine makes the realization that she has left one prison only to come home to another prison. Compare and contrast the two prisons in Elaine's life--Bedford Hills Prison and Apartment 13B.

Essay Topic 3

Elaine and Nathan make the decision to marry before being sentenced. Yvonne makes her strenuous objections known. Both Elaine and Nathan know for a fact that they're going to prison. So why do they decide to marry? Do they think marriage will have an effect on their sentencing?

(see the answer keys)

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