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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who interrupts Sue's thoughts?

2. How does Reva respond to Sue's comment about Johnny-Boy?

3. As Sue regains consciousness, what does she hear?

4. What probably sustains Sue?

5. What does Sue do when this person comes into the kitchen?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

While it may seem inconceivable for a mother to stand by and watch her son be tortured, Sue knows that the emotional pain her son would feel if the other members of the party were seized would be far greater. And so, out of love for her son, she stands quietly by and does not respond to the sheriff's demands.

1. Do you think Sue was right or wrong to worry about her son's emotional pain? Why or why not?

2. How does Sue demonstrate her strength as she stands by while her son is tortured?

3. Do you think you could have done what Sue did? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

Sue finally decides to go to the woods with a white sheet to retrieve her son's body.

1. What do you think the white sheet symbolizes in the story?

2. How do you think your mother or father would react in Sue's situation?

3. Why do you think Sue believes her son is dead? Does it seem morbid for a mother to go find her son with a sheet to wrap around his body? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

When Sue tells one of the men that she is sure her son will eventually be killed, the man tells her that his life can be spared if he gives them the names of his comrades. Sue replies that she knows her son will not do this and so she is prepared for his death.

1. How did you respond to Sue's handling of this part of the situation?

2. Do you think this behavior on Sue's part is realistic in the real world? Why or why not?

3. If your child's life was at stake what would you do in Sue's position?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 377 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample