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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. Some of the themes Sedaris finds common in his fantasies are

2. Sedaris finds the assignation of gender difficult because

3. Though the teacher ridicules him in the end, Sedaris is proud because

4. In this essay, Sedaris' itineraries revolve around

5. What does Sedaris admit to feeling for America?

Short Essay Questions

1. In the end, what does the class discussion on Easter lead Sedaris to conclude?

2. Why is Reggie so indignant about his job on the construction site clean-up crew?

3. Why does Sedaris find the many signs posted in America ironic?

4. Describe the Easter celebration the Sedaris family held each year.

5. How has Sedaris' childhood been different from Hugh's?

6. How does Sedaris attempt to charm his teacher with his humor?

7. Why does Sedaris eventually take the Mensa IQ test?

8. Why are Sedaris' fantasies about manipulating American people rather than French people?

9. Why is Sedaris relieved that he squeals and grabs his neighbors' legs when the men are injured by the vachettes?

10. Why is Sedaris devastated to learn that his former boyfriend works the Times crossword puzzle?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Through several of his essays, Sedaris explores the theme of belonging. Choose three examples from the text that illustrate Sedaris' feelings about belonging, and write an essay in which you explore his viewpoint, supporting your argument with text.

Essay Topic 2

What expectations does Sedaris seem to have for American behavior? What stereotypes does he point out other nations have attributed to Americans? Write an essay in which you defend, refute, or qualify at least three stereotypes Sedaris identifies in Americans.

Essay Topic 3

Many of Sedaris' essays focus on childhood. Write an essay in which you determine a theme Sedaris creates on the subject of childhood, and use specific examples to support your argument.

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