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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. In chapter six, Trillin states that studies show most marital disagreements are about:

2. Of the following, which one is an accurate statement of Calvin's views?

3. Where does Calvin and Alice have a summer home?

4. In chapter five, Alice is quoted as saying the following about her mother:

5. According to Calvin, Alice has especially strong views about which of the following subjects?

Short Essay Questions

1. In what ways are Calvin Trillin and Alice lucky?

2. What reasons does Mina Shaughnessy give to justify her choice of clothing?

3. In chapter four, do you think Calvin Trillin is wise to not to take the advice of his colleague?

4. Why does Alice think that marrying Calvin Trillin means she has to live a modest lifestyle?

5. Does Alice ever exercise restraint when it comes to controversial subjects?

6. What is Alice's attitude toward cigarettes?

7. What is the SEEK program? Why is it important to Alice?

8. Why does Calvin Trillin show his wife Alice his rough drafts?

9. In chapter six, explain Calvin Trillin's theory about the person who makes out the mortgage check in a marriage.

10. In chapter five, following Alice's bypass operation, what warning does Alice's surgeon give Calvin Trillin?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay in which you discuss the Trillin family mottos of "Pull Up Your Socks" and "No Kvetching". What do these mottos say about their values? In what ways does Alice live her life in accordance with these mottos?

Essay Topic 2

Write about the levels of perseverance exhibited by Alice and Calvin.

Part 1) In what ways does Alice or Calvin exhibit perseverance?

Part 2) What keeps them hopeful?

Part 3) Do either person ever lose hope? If so, when? What is the outcome?

Cite examples from the book in your response.

Essay Topic 3

In what ways does Alice express her gratitude throughout her lifetime? What reasons does she give for being grateful? Be sure to address the following:

• How does her sense of gratitude impact others in her life?

• Do you agree with Alice's assessment that she is a lucky person?

Cite examples from the book in your response.

(see the answer keys)

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