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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. In Chapter 5, what makes Jesse dizzy?

2. Why does Ma suggest Jessie meet with Mr. Neely in Chapter 5?

3. Why do the middle school visitors to Clifton make fun of Clifton's school?

4. In Chapter 1, why won't Jessie's mother let her see Betsy?

5. What does Jessie's dad do for a living?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Chapter 1, how does Jessie describe a visit to Dr. Fister?

2. In Chapter 5, what does Ma tell Jessie about clothing?

3. What do Jessie's parents do to make their living in Clifton?

4. In Chapter 1, what rule does Ma have for Jessie coming with her on a house call?

5. In Chapter 7, what makes Jessie feel better about leaving Clifton?

6. What does Jessie do after leaving the bathroom in Chapter 7?

7. What does Jessie do when Ma visits with Sally and Betsy in Chapter 1?

8. In Chapter 1, how is Clifton described?

9. How does Jessie avoid being caught by Clifton security in Chapter 6?

10. What was Ma's life like before moving to Clifton?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Analyze Jessie as a protagonist. How does she match the description of a protagonist? In what ways is she effective at anchoring this novel? In what ways is she not?

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast the author's use of dialog to her use of descriptive passages. What are the strengths of each type of narration? When are they used? How do they develop the plot and characters of this novel?

Essay Topic 3

Explore the symbolism used in "Running Out of Time". Consider the symbolic value of rocks, trees and cars. Why does the author use this device?

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