|
| Name: _________________________ | Period: ___________________ |
This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.
Short Answer Questions
1. In Chapter VIII, "Some Jerk," Melissa sees a "safe space" sign in the principal's office. What does it make her think of?
2. In Chapter VII, "Time Drags When You're Miserable," what function does the repetition of the word "dragged" serve in the first paragraph?
3. In Chapter VIII, "Some Jerk," who is wearing a t-shirt that says "I'm Having a Whale of a Time" (103)?
4. In Chapter XI, "Invitations," what plan does Kelly reveal?
5. In the beginning of Chapter VII, "Time Drags When You're Miserable," how does Kelly treat Melissa?
Short Essay Questions
1. In Chapter XI, "Invitations," Kelly invites Melissa to go to the zoo. What causes Melissa to hesitate at first, and what then causes her to enthusiastically accept the invitation?
2. In Chapter XI, "Invitations," when Melissa tells Kelly her "girl" name, how does Kelly react?
3. In the beginning of Chapter IX, "Dinner at Arnie's," how does Scott react to Melissa's explanation of her gender identity?
4. Melissa's mom seems to think that identifying as a girl might be a "phase" that Melissa will grow out of. What are some clues that the book gives us that make this seem unlikely?
5. In Chapter XI, "Invitations," what change do readers see in the relationship between Jeff and Rick?
6. In Chapter XII, "Melissa Goes to the Zoo," what preparations has Kelly made for Melissa's arrival, and what do they show about how Kelly is thinking and feeling?
7. In Chapter VII, "Some Jerk," Melissa and Kelly have an exchange about transgender rights. Explain what each girl says about this topic.
8. In Chapter XII, "Melissa Goes to the Zoo," what activity from earlier in her childhood does Melissa engage in, and what does this show about her feelings?
9. In Chapter IX, "Dinner at Arnie's," why is Scott surprised by his mother's behavior?
10. In the beginning of Chapter VII, "Time Drags When You're Miserable," what is the purpose of including the details about Jeff and Rick making fun of the kindergartners and Mrs. Fields?
Essay Topics
Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:
Essay Topic 1
There are numerous ways that Melissa's school reinforces gender norms. Describe several of these and comment on how realistic this depiction of contemporary schools is.
Essay Topic 2
Ms. Udell is a complex character. Sometimes she seems very caring and kind, and other times she seems strict--even mean. Using several examples of her dialogue and actions, explain the contradictions in her character. What are the contradictions, and what do you think explains them?
Essay Topic 3
What does the nickname "Gee-gee" tell you about the relationship between Melissa and her mother? Explain two things that this nickname implies about their relationship.
|
This section contains 1,152 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) |
|



