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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 does Ezra describe so well?

2. What does Nyle think the kids believe about her and Ezra?

3. Why does Nyle go through her clothes?

4. What does Mrs. Trent ask Nyle do to before Mrs. Trent leaves the kitchen?

5. What does Ezra keep with him though he no longer needs it?

Short Essay Questions

1. What sort of epiphany does Nyle have about Ezra as he begins to heal?

2. What is ironic about Nyle's response to Ezra's announcement about school?

3. What are signs of Ezra's improvement?

4. What is the difference in the way Nyle and Ezra interpret Nyle's history assignment?

5. What happens that probably garners sympathy for Ripley on the part of the characters and readers?

6. Describe the altercation between Ripley and the three friends.

7. What do you think indicates Ezra's change of feelings towards Nyle from a stranger to a friend, and perhaps even more? How does this contrast to Nyle's statement in chapter 13?

8. Why do you think Nyle and Ezra are awkward with each other when put in a position that it seems they must acknowledge something about their relationship?

9. How does Nyle and Gran's discussion about the Trent's future show Nyle's continued maturing?

10. How does Ripley demonstrate that he is a bully?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In chapter 3, Mr. Sobel, the science teacher, informs the students all about radioactive materials. Nyle reflects on how much better science class was when it was just text in a book and not material that the children experienced firsthand. Answer the following questions by writing a well-developed essay using specific examples and details:

1. What is ironic about Mr. Sobel's science lesson? Do you think the irony is humorous or tragic? Why?

2. We have all heard the statement, "learn by experience." Now it is apparent there are times when that's not the best way to learn. When is learning by experience helpful? When can it be harmful? How does Ezra learn by experience in a harmful way? In a helpful way (see chapter 21)?

3. Which type of learning do you prefer--hands on or book learning? Why?

Essay Topic 2

Wrapping it up. Choose one of the following and write a cohesive essay using specific examples and details to illustrate your stance:

1. Trace a major theme in the book using examples from numerous points in the book. Tell why you think it is a major theme and any symbols that illustrate the theme.

2. Compare and contrast who Nyle is at the beginning of the book versus the Nyle at the end of the book. Use details and examples to illustrate your points.

3. What do you think might have been the author's reason (i.e., the author's agenda) for writing this book? Give detailed examples to support your response.

Essay Topic 3

In chapter 21, Ezra begins to talk about his pent-up feelings to Nyle. Ezra tries to explain to Nyle how he feels about the accident and his father's death. Ezra talks more than he ever has, and Nyle, not knowing what to say, says nothing and just listens to him. Ezra confides in her and eventually he breaks down after she wraps her arms around him. Answer the following questions by writing a cohesive essay using specific examples and details to illustrate your stance.

1. Ezra's talking about his feelings of guilt and crying are a catharsis. Explain this term and how it applies to Ezra.

2. Do you think Nyle does the best thing in the situation by not offering solutions or pat answers? Why or why not?

3. What would you want a friend to do when you are trying to express some very painful emotions? Do you have any friends or family members that would interpret your need correctly? How does it feel to have someone like that in your life?

(see the answer keys)

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