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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. What does Ralston realize when reflecting on his discussions with Rob Cooper?

2. What causes Ralston's left hand to swell?

3. According to the ranger at Teton, what do you do if you decide to throw rocks at a black bear?

4. Ralston attends what university?

5. Where is Ralston's first backpacking trip?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is it be natural for Betty Darr to come up in Ralston's mind during his entrapment?

2. When Ralston finally succeeds in chipping parts of the chockstone, why do you think he collects the larger flakes?

3. What remedy does Ralston give himself after sustaining an injury on Capitol Peak instead of going to the hospital?

4. Describe the possible consequences Ralston faces if he decides to amputate his arm.

5. Even before the expected predicament of Ralston occurs, what conversation foreshadows the eerie feeling of the canyon?

6. Although Ralston usually prepares himself before setting out on his adventures, what event(s) occur(s) at Havasupai that shows Ralston does not always look before he leaps?

7. How does Ralston feels he fits into Aspen's social class?

8. In addition to the direct injury of his pinned arm, what other challenges does Ralston face from being stuck in one place?

9. What external events serve as a reminder to Ralston that he is lucky despite his risky adventures?

10. How does Ralston react spiritually to his entrapment?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare at least five stories Ralston tells of his past climbs. What patterns are seen in Ralston's behavior? His decisions? His climb selections? How he deals with each situation?

Essay Topic 2

Ralston constantly updates the video camera of his current situation. He assumes he dies in the canyon and expects a stranger one day finds his body and his camera. Explain the reasoning behind Ralston's need to constantly talk to the camera and detail his entrapment.

Essay Topic 3

Ralston is an avid solo climber who seems to prefer to do many activities alone. Yet he has many friends to party with and plenty worry and search for him. Explore Ralston's relationships with his family and friends. Does he seem close to any in particular? Is there a mutual respect between Ralston and his friends? What holds the bond between Ralston and his companions?

(see the answer keys)

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