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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. What do the V's that Paddy and his friends write on their chest with a marker stand for?

2. Who is the central character in the story that Paddy says is the best story he ever read?

3. What does Paddy use to choke Brian Sheridan with while the boys are waiting to have their marks checked?

4. What marks are the school officials checking for one day at Paddy's school?

5. Who is Kevin's older brother?

Short Essay Questions

1. Using details from the text, describe what happens when Paddy and Kevin enter the nurse's office to have their marks checked.

2. Why doesn't Paddy ever answer Kevin's questions?

3. Using details from the text to support your answer, describe Mr. Hennessey, Paddy's teacher.

4. Using details from the text, describe how Paddy's fort under the table is an indication that Paddy still wants to be a child.

5. Paddy states in the novel that the story of Father Damien was the best story Paddy ever read. Why does Paddy enjoy this story?

6. Using details from the text, describe how Paddy is stuck between being a child and becoming a teenager.

7. What happens to Paddy one day after they watch a Three Stooges movie at school?

8. Describe Paddy's relationship with his two sisters, Catherine and Deirdre.

9. What happens to Kevin's brother when he gets into big trouble?

10. What action during the family picnic causes Paddy to ruin Sinbad's biscuits? How does Paddy ruin the biscuits?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Throughout the story Paddy often tells lies. What are some of the lies Paddy tells? Later in the story Paddy explains why he lies. Using details from the text and classroom discussion, explain why Paddy likes to make up stories that are not true.

Essay Topic 2

What are some of the important places where Paddy and his friends spend their time? How do the boys spend their time at these places? Are the places safe? Are the boys' activities safe?

Essay Topic 3

How are the elements of conflict presented in the novel? Is Paddy the only character that has a conflict or are there others? Use details from the class discussion and the text to support your answers.

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