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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 is the author of THE DEAD OF THE HOUSE?

2. Miss Janice had been _________________ in Grandpa and Grandmother Nye's home.

3. Who was Bronson Alcott's daughter?

4. In which religion did Vanessa's great-great-grandfather preach?

5. Where did Grandpa Nye attend college?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain the L F B M Club.

2. What is Vanessa's only recollection of Grandmother Nye?

3. Who did Grandpa Nye marry and who were their children?

4. Why was Grandpa Nye determined to speak at the library cornerstone ceremony?

5. Where are Vanessa and her grandfather as he tells her more about her ancestors?

6. How did Vanessa know her parents were enjoying their time at the cottage too?

7. How does Grandpa Nye help the girls to appreciate the historic trail they will take on the way to Michigan?

8. What is Grandpa Nye's condition when the family goes to visit him?

9. Who was Grandpa Nye's second wife?

10. How is Grandpa Nye present at the Nye house even though he is in the hospital?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The dead of the house seem to be very much alive for Vanessa. How does she keep them alive? How does Grandpa Nye keep them alive? Why do Vanessa and Grandpa Nye feel it is so important to try to keep them alive? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

Vanessa begins to show signs of maturity as the story evolves. Cite at least three examples that show that Vanessa is growing up and note why you selected the examples.

Essay Topic 3

Create a brief character study of Grandpa Nye. What does he look like? What are his positive personality traits? What are some of his negative characteristics? What are his hopes and fears? What motivates him--if anything--at this point in his life?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 882 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample