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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. For what does Hassel pray when the bishop comes?

2. Who has threatened to bring criminal charges against Tom if he doesn't shut down his VISTA activities?

3. At the picket line, someone puts up a sign that says ____________________.

4. What part of his body does Dillon injure when he falls down a hill?

5. What happens to Tom that produces a fatal injury?

Short Essay Questions

1. How will Jackie's profession allow her to shed light on the poverty and suffering of people in her hometown?

2. What do Dillon and Arthur Lee do to try to warn the town about the dam which has burst?

3. What are the possible interpretations of Tom's telling Jackie that they are "not done" yet?

4. How does Lech Walesa's broken promise to come to support the coal miners' strike symbolize a lack of support for the region?

5. What significance do black lungs have for the story?

6. What threat does the dam pose and how do Dillon and Arthur Lee differ in how to manage the problem?

7. What impact can Dillon see that the strike will have on the way of life he has known?

8. How has Rachel's illness impacted her life?

9. How does Dillon exhibit his loyalty both in his personal and professional life?

10. Where does Jackie find Tom the morning after the dam burst and what does she tell him even though he is already dead?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

"The Unquiet Earth" is a classic story of the struggle to rise above circumstances. What does that classification entail? Why does this novel fit into this category? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

Giardina is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphors, and irony, briefly describe them and identify the technique which they embody.

Essay Topic 3

The author uses several instances of foreshadowing in the story. Explain what foreshadowing is, and cite at least two examples making sure to explain what makes each an instance of foreshadowing.

(see the answer keys)

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