View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. In which of the following states did O'Brien complete his basic training?

2. With whom does O'Brien request a meeting?

3. Which of the following terms best describes how O'Brien feels during basic training?

4. What is O'Brien's job with Alpha Company?

5. Where is Alpha Company when O'Brien arrives?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is available at the combat center for entertainment?

2. Describe O'Brien's childhood and adolescence.

3. What philosophical conversation does O'Brien attempt to hold with the captain?

4. What are the first few days like for O'Brien?

5. How do the soldiers react to these self-induced injuries caused by soldiers tossing about their own grenades?

6. How does O'Brien see himself during basic training?

7. Why does the Chaplain disappoint O'Brien?

8. What does O'Brien rebel against during basic training?

9. Describe the backdrop for O'Brien's upbringing.

10. Describe Alpha Company as O'Brien first meets them.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay comparing Captain Smith and Major Callicles. In what ways are they similar? In what ways are they different? Which character do you believe you are most like? Why? Use specific examples from the text to support your writing.

Essay Topic 2

Write a letter to a congressman penned by O'Brien after he returned to America from his tour in Vietnam. Be sure to include his strong feelings, beliefs and reasons behind these beliefs and feelings.

Essay Topic 3

Describe why Captain Johansen can be considered a hero. What is your definition of a hero? Does O'Brien meet your personal definition of a hero at any time throughout this novel? Do you believe your definition is universal or unique?Uses examples from the story to support your ideas.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 476 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample