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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. Where does Mrs. Luther take Antonia's mom?

2. How did Jazz's friend commit suicide?

3. Antonia finds Chuckie on her mother's lap, but he is holding something dangerous. What is it?

4. What is Mr. Luther's first name?

5. Who does Antonia call when she finds out that needs to get to her mother and brothers?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the significance of the Christmas picture that Antonia looks at in her mother's bedroom?

2. What is Jazz's problem with Mrs. Bartoli?

3. Why was Antonia embarrassed to hand her math homework in to Mrs. Bartoli?

4. What does Antonia cite as her biggest regret, and how does disclosing that affect the story?

5. What does Mr. Luther do to show his support for the Dillon children after their mother is hospitalized?

6. How does Jazz feel about her sister, Janey?

7. Explain why Antonia does not want to be a peer counselor to Jazz Luther.

8. Why does Antonia continue to lie about her dad?

9. What does the word "cronk" mean?

10. What happens when Antonia's mom decides to take the kids on a picnic?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Define Normal was a finalist for the National Book Award. Describe this award, and then give specific examples of ways that this book fits into the criteria of a National Book Award nominee. At the end of your definition and description, include a statement as to whether or not you think the book is worthy of this award.

Essay Topic 2

Jazz is easily the most colorful character in the book. Discuss how her use of clothing becomes part of her identity. As part of your discussion, declare whether or not you think Jazz's identity - as proclaimed by her wardrobe - is genuine.

Essay Topic 3

Telling the truth versus telling lies is a theme that comes up over and over in the book. Give three examples from the text where a character does not tell the whole truth. Take each of these examples and illustrate the impact that the lie has on the person telling it.

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This section contains 921 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample