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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. Who does Porscha refer to as "Miss Shyness herself" in "Porscha Johnson"?

2. How many syllables does the author write of in "Private Puzzle"?

3. What does the author of write in the final line after "P.S." in "A Letter to my Mother"?

4. What is the last comment about dreams in the poem "Doubtless"?

5. Who does Porscha say came close to killing her more than once in "Porscha Johnson"?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the subject of the poem "Self-Portrait: A Poem for My Father"?

2. What do each of the poets contribute to the poem "News at Five"?

3. What does Wesley say to Sheila which makes her reconsider changing herself in "Sheila"? How does she express this in "Private Puzzle"?

4. What determination is expressed in "Doubtless"? How does this reflect Steve's life?

5. How has Lupe's focus changed in the narrative by the time she reads "Imagine"?

6. What metaphors does Janelle use in the poem "The Door"?

7. Where does Lupe say she wants to go to college in "Lupe"? Why?

8. How does Porscha describe gaining her reputation in "Porscha Johnson"?

9. What passion motivates Steve in "Steve Ericson"?

10. Who is Amy envious of in "Amy Moscowitz"? Who gives Amy advice about jealousy?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe the imagery, structure and themes of "Black Box." How does the theme of judgment apply to the poem and to the narrative?

Essay Topic 2

Describe and analyze the metaphors, similes and structural elements in the poem "Inside." What metaphor does Janelle use to describe her body?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the role of Mr. Ward in the narrative. Why does Mr. Ward not have a monologue or poem in the narrative? How is he described by the characters?

(see the answer keys)

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