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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. The narrator says that from the front doors of the A and P, he can see what kind of store?
(a) A liquor store.
(b) A newspaper store.
(c) A pet store.
(d) A tobacco store.

2. What kind of pattern does the floor at the A and P have?
(a) Houndstooth.
(b) Checkerboard.
(c) Striped.
(d) Gingham.

3. To what animal does the narrator compare his customers when discussing how they react to seeing the girls in the store?
(a) Donkeys.
(b) Mules.
(c) Rabbits.
(d) Sheep.

4. The narrator uses what word to describe the reactions of the other customers as they catch sight of the young women in the store?
(a) Embarrassing.
(b) Shocking.
(c) Hilarious.
(d) Extreme.

5. How many children does Stokesie have?
(a) 4.
(b) 1.
(c) 2.
(d) 3.

Short Answer Questions

1. The girls ask a question when they reach what area of the store?

2. How does the narrator describe Stokesie's relationship status?

3. The narrator asks the reader in reference to females, "Do you really think there's a mind in there or just a buzz like a" what "in a glass jar" (2)?

4. The narrator does NOT state that women who come into the store usually put on before entering?

5. Of whom do the girls ask a question?

Short Essay Questions

1. What simile does Sammy use to describe the layout of the grocery store?

2. In what way is Sammy demonstrating true empathy toward the young women with his comment beginning with "Poor kids" (11)?

3. Provide evidence for the conclusion that Sammy uses diminutive terms indiscriminate of his target's gender.

4. What is the setting of the story "A and P"?

5. What sorts of details does Updike use to portray the appearance of the store and why?

6. What is Stokesie's career goal?

7. What does Sammy mean when he describes Stokesie "finding his voice" (9)?

8. How is the motif of sexuality included within the story?

9. Discuss how Updike uses language to indicate the character traits of Sammy.

10. To what does Stokesie refer when he asks Sammy, "Is it done?" (9)?

(see the answer keys)

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