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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. Deydey visits with two friends, Albert La Pautre and __________________.

2. Where had Omakayas put the injured crow?

3. What wounded creature does Omakayas take pity on and take home with her?

4. What does Omakayas become convinced about regarding the bear?

5. Who do the voyageurs find alive in the village?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Omakayas' encounter with the two bear cubs and their mother.

2. What are Omakayas' conflicted feelings about Angeline?

3. What startles Mama regarding the bears when she goes looking for Omakayas?

4. How is Omakayas able to comfort Neewo when he is upset and in her care?

5. Why does Omakayas suggest that Angeline go to the river instead of working on the moose hide?

6. Who are Omakayas and Nokomis and what are they doing as Chapter 1 begins?

7. What does Nokomis do to the tree prior to cutting the bark?

8. What is significant about Omakayas' encounter with the bears?

9. What are some of the themes in THE BIRCHBARK HOUSE?

10. Describe what happens when Pinch eats too many berries and then blames it on Andeg.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author used more than one iteration on the theme of loss. Identify at least two examples about loss in the book and then explain why the examples support the theme.

Essay Topic 2

Louise Erdrich is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphor, and irony. Briefly describe each, identifying the technique used.

Essay Topic 3

Spirituality takes on an almost human persona in this book. What role does spirituality play in the lives of the characters? What is this literary technique called? Cite examples that support this position.

(see the answer keys)

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