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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. To what does Bombeck compare children in "How to Speak Child Fluently?"

2. What did Bombeck's son cite specifically as being an article of clothing he wears several times before washing it?

3. Where did Bombeck find the dried French fry in "Warning: Families May Be Dangerous To Your Health?"

4. According to Bombeck, what was notable about using a shopping cart?

5. What did Bombeck predict as being the future of game show contestants?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Bombeck's theoretical game show, what would lead to the winning contestant winning a mink coat?

2. Discuss Bombeck's analogy of children in "How to Speak Child Fluently."

3. For what reasons did Bombeck decide that there should be two versions of "The Star-Spangled Banner?"

4. How did Bombeck's husband humorously skewer the idealization of her analogy in "How to Speak Child Fluently"?

5. For what reasons was Bombeck always self-conscious about using the drive-in at a bank?

6. What impressed Bombeck most about the women on game shows?

7. What was the story behind the note in "Warning: Families May Be Dangerous To Your Healthy."

8. What is "Inspector 56?"

9. What were some trends Bombeck hoped were on the way out and how did she admit to ultimately feeling about certain fads?

10. What are some parts of "A Baby's Bill of Rights?"

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss aspects of Bombeck's writing techniques in the following format:

Part 1) Exaggeration.

Part 2) Subversion of cliches.

Part 3) Analogies.

Part 4) Nostalgia without the saccharine undertones.

Part 5) Honesty.

Compose a strong thesis and cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the subtle subversions in Bombeck's writing. Points to consider include her subjects, the time in which she wrote these essays, and her handling of serious matters in a light-hearted manner. Also, analyze how these attitudes are reflected in her children as they grow up and how her messages were affected by her success and national syndication. Develop a clear thesis statement and cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss Bombeck's emphasis on honesty and candor at all times in the following format:

Part 1) Portrayals of her family.

Part 2) The artifice of game shows, plus the intrusion of the media.

Part 3) The confessional feel of "Are You Listening?"

Part 4) Her use of exaggeration in conjunction to her honesty.

Part 5) Her stance on aging and beauty.

Cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

(see the answer keys)

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