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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. When Rufus next talks with Willie after the scrapbook incident at the rally, how soon does he say he needs Willie to get him a rifle?

2. Rufus is pleased with the plan to hold the dance, as he thinks Simon will try to make trouble and what will happen?

3. While participating in the event, Rufus has a bad feeling about __________.

4. Rufus is surprised that wearing their best clothes and paying an admission causes everyone to do what?

5. Pelican does what in response to the proposal Rufus makes to him?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens when Simon Jones tells Ernie Brown that Rufus Henry maintains a scrapbook on Ernie?

2. While hanging out at Baby Gibson's building getting drunk and telling stories, what does Rufus Henry realize?

3. What is Alex Robbins' reaction when the Moors tell him they desire to host a black-tie event at a local hall, including several hundred guests as well as police presence?

4. What takes place when Rufus Henry notices the arrival of Simon Jones and his date?

5. How do the Moors prompt the Gassers to chase them to the location they want the attack to take place that evening?

6. What type of trouble does Rufus Henry initially encounter with the rifle that Willie obtains?

7. What proposal does Rufus Henry make to the leader of the Aztecs after Pelican Smith says no?

8. On Friday night of the graduation celebration, what does Rufus Henry observe as he makes his way to the event with his date?

9. What does Ernie Brown suggest the boys begin in the projects?

10. What happens when Rufus Henry sees that the Gassers' dates are no longer present?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Rufus Henry recognizes that he wants to attend college, but to do so requires him to obtain a scholarship. What sports scholarship does Rufus seek? What steps is Rufus following toward achieving that goal? What dietary procedures is he pursuing? What sort of employment does Rufus feel he must obtain in order to develop his muscles?

Essay Topic 2

In the passage Frank Bonham presents in Chapters 22-24, the main subplot of Durango Street takes focus. What is Rufus Henry inclined to believe when his mother, earlier in the story, tells him a news article has gotten Ernie Brown's hometown wrong? What happens after he meets Ernie in terms of receiving no special treatment? What transpires once the connection between Rufus and Ernie is revealed to be untrue? Why would she make such a story up? Once Rufus' connection with Ernie is exposed to be false, Rufus recognizes he must do what?

Essay Topic 3

Frank Bonham uses a literary archetype in the fight scene between Rufus Henry and Bantu. That is, Rufus as the noble warrior only hurting his opponent as necessary. Elaborate on Bonham's use of this technique. Consider why Rufus avoids use of a knife. What are the legal aspects? What position does emerging from the confrontation as the winner without inflicting severe harm symbolize? What does Rufus come out from the fight as in terms of leadership? What is Rufus truly deserving of from his fellow Moors?

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