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

Short Answer Questions

1. What is Ralphie's teacher's name?

2. Besides the license number of the getaway car, what else is in Mr. Patterson's car?

3. Why does Bard become embroiled with Griffin?

4. Who jumps on the back of Mr. Patterson's truck?

5. Where is Dan's gun found?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Act 3, Robish is convinced that someone is moving in on the house, but Griffin feels that the two remaining convicts are safe and will soon be on their way to Helen and Hank, who should be waiting in Louisville. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using examples from the book as well as personal experience:

1. Do you think truly believes that he and Robish are safe? Is Griffin cracking under the stress of the situation?

2. Now with Hank gone from the house, do you think Griffin is becoming more careless and less caring about what happens to him and Robish?

3. Sometimes a leader will crack under stress and can no longer think clearly or make rational choices. Is this what is happening to Griffin? Do you think the Hilliard family would be in greater danger if Griffin cracks completely?

Essay Topic 2

During the climatic and final Act 3, both Chuck and Dan have the opportunity to kill one or more of the convicts during all the confusion. Both men choose to hit the convicts rather than shoot to kill. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using examples from the book as well as personal experience:

1. Why do you think Dan and Chuck do not try to kill the convicts when they separately have the chance?

2. Do you think Griffin would have actually killed Ralphie if the gun had been loaded? Explain your thoughts with examples.

3. Do you think the average non-criminal citizen would have done the same thing as Dan and Chuck, i.e., disable rather than kill? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

When Cindy first arrives home after the three convicts have taken control of the home, she realizes the situation and almost runs, but Griffin stops her with the threat that he will kill Eleanor if Cindy tries to leave. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using examples from the book as well as personal experience:

1. Would you run or stay if you were Cindy? Consider that it is possible the convicts would kill you along with your mother no matter what they say. Explain your rationale.

2. If you were Eleanor, would you want your daughter to run, even if it means your death? Explain.

3. Later in the story, the young boy of the household, Ralphie, does try to leave, though he is caught by Robish. Why do you think Ralphie tries to run; whereas, Cindy decides to enter the house and voluntarily become a hostage?

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This section contains 520 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample