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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 do to conserve his water supply on his hike out?

2. Who does he meet on his hike out of the canyon?

3. Why does Ralston take off his lycra padded shorts?

4. What stops Brad and Leah from going to the Saturday party?

5. What does Brian decide to do when Ralston does not show up?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Leona sense about Ralston's current situation from Boulder?

2. What characteristics of Ralston returns once safe in the helicopter and hospital?

3. What does Ralston realize about his arm that causes him to panic and wildly thrash around trying to free himself?

4. Describe the sequence of events the leads to locating Ralston's truck.

5. What is Elliot's role in the search for Ralston?

6. Describe the conditions of the Elk Mountains Grand Traverse race and what complications it causes the racers.

7. Summarize the two hikers' weekend after they leave Ralston in the canyon, right before his entrapment. Note the circumstances that affects the timing of Ralston's rescue.

8. From Ralston's perspective, what significance is there in knowing what his friends are doing during his entrapment?

9. What symptoms does Ralston observe about his body and mind that shows signs of dehydration and lack of sleep?

10. Once Ralston is missing, how does his friends handle the situation?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Ralston is an avid reader who admires other adventurers and conservationists. Using of one Ralston's references, give a brief report on someone Ralston admires. Explain why Ralston admires this character.

Essay Topic 2

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 3

Ralston is stuck in the canyon for six days and is generally calm, with some bouts of anger and frustration. However, when he sees the decomposition of his arm is greater than he realizes, he panics more than usual. Why? Ralston is mentally aware his arm is decomposing for several days. Describe what really sets him off.

(see the answer keys)

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