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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. At the bottom of a rappel, what does he find?

2. In addition to a helicopter, what other search group is called out to Horseshoe Canyon?

3. What important role does Captain Kyle Ekker play in Ralston's search?

4. When getting too confident at Slick Rock Trail, what happens to Ralston?

5. What location description is given to the dispatcher to describe Ralston's most likely whereabouts?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. How does Emery County know to send a helicopter even before they find Ralston?

3. How does Donna react to Brian's initial phone call? How does her reaction compare to Ralston's characteristics?

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

5. Describe common themes in Ralston's memories.

6. What is the feeling and mood of Ralston's trances?

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

8. What happens after the amputation that eventually leads Ralston to the helicopter?

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Before his entrapment, Ralston narrowly escapes death many times. He states how lucky he is in his adventures. Discuss how you think Ralston views his luck.

Essay Topic 2

For nearly a week, Ralston is trapped in the canyon with nothing but his own thoughts. He reminisces on many things. What are some of his more important memories? Discuss why they are important to him. What revelations does he have as he remembers past events while stuck in the canyon?

Essay Topic 3

Select one chapter of "Between a Rock and a Hard Place". Describe the chapter's tone and pace. Discuss why Ralston sets this tone and pace and what purpose it serves the reader. Consider the placement of the chapter in the book, the purpose of the chapter, and what Ralston is feeling.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,174 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample