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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Part III: Chapter 18 Writing About the Arts: Critics and Columnists.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why should interview questions be written before the interview?
(a) To avoid having to do it at the interview.
(b) To avoid drawing a blank in the middle of an interview.
(c) To keep the person being interviewed on track.
(d) To focus the interview around a certain theme.

2. What is another important characteristic of a writer?
(a) To sound out simple syllables.
(b) To be aware of the way words are spelled.
(c) To sound out simple sentences.
(d) To be aware of the rhythm and sound of words together.

3. What is a major job of a nonfiction writer?
(a) Taking on a project with a clean slate. Just like a jury in a legal battle.
(b) Conducting interviews with people who know about the writing project subject.
(c) Majoring in the subject they will write about.
(d) Learning as much as possible about a subject before taking on a project.

4. Where is there an opportunity for great creative writing?
(a) Writing for the arts is the best opportunity to write creatively.
(b) Online at freelance job web sites.
(c) LIterary journals.
(d) At the local library.

5. Does Zissner believe in the journalism model for good writing?
(a) No because journalists use cheap words and buzz words.
(b) Yes, it saves space and uses modern words.
(c) No, journalism is dead and the writing is poor.
(d) Yes, it is efficient and catchy.

Short Answer Questions

1. When does the writing start for a nonfiction article?

2. What trap do journalists and editors fall into often?

3. What is Zinsser's preferred method for interviewing?

4. What does the etymology of words mean?

5. How much information should a writer provide to his or her readers?

(see the answer key)

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