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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 Knight promise to share with the reader?

2. What can a writer use to help him or her flesh out a character or situation?

3. In the writer's mind, what is the hero usually like?

4. What can a writer observe to create empathy?

5. Which of the following can help somebody who needs to learn to hear?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the second stage of the developing writer?

2. According to Knight, what sparks an idea for a story?

3. What conclusion did Knight come to about teaching students how to write?

4. Describe the first stage of the developing writer.

5. What things does an editor look for in considering work?

6. Why is empathy important to writing?

7. What are some ways for a writer to get inspiration?

8. Why is the first person perspective difficult for the writer?

9. What approach should a writer take when dealing with an editor?

10. How can a writer get out of the first stage of the developing writer?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Knight reveals to the reader some of his weaknesses as a young writer. Why do you think he reveals weaknesses? What effect does this have on you as a reader? Why? Was this Knight's purpose?

Essay Topic 2

Why does Knight regard repetition as being negative in a short story? What are alliteration and consonance, and what role do they play in a short story? Why would it be advantageous or disadvantageous to include these elements in a story?

Essay Topic 3

Knight has debated with himself about why or why not good writing can be taught. What is your take on the issue? Can good storytelling be taught? Why or why not? How do your findings differ from Knight's?

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