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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. What hiding place does Ben stumble into during the storm in Chapter Seven?

2. Why does Esther not initially go to look for her son when she realizes she hasn't seen him for awhile?

3. When the badger returns to the den in Chapter Eight, what animal does she bring for Ben to eat?

4. With what prized possession does John mark the spot where he finds Ben's missing article of clothing?

5. Which of the neighbors fires the five shots to call the searchers in and cancel the search for Ben?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does the search team from North Corners not turn up any sign of Ben in the two days they spend looking?

2. Why does John decide to use his prized rifle to mark the spot where he found Ben's shoe, as the rifle will certainly be ruined?

3. Why does Ben go to such lengths to hide Lobo's body after the badger kills him?

4. Describe why the MacDonald family finally accepts Ben's story as complete truth.

5. Why does Ben not recognize his brother when John first attempts contact with him in Chapter Eleven?

6. Describe Ben's appearance when John finds him and returns home.

7. Why do both William and Ben believe they are responsible for William hitting Ben during the badger skinning?

8. What are William's thoughts when Ben asks if the badger will live?

9. Describe the process by which Ben cleans the badger's injured paw.

10. Why is William initially unconcerned about Ben's location in Chapter Nine?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

William and Esther have very different approaches to dealing with their son's disability. Compare and contrast their methods and examine which method seems to be more effective. Be sure to use supporting information from the text.

Essay Topic 2

Does the author present a realistic view of pioneer life, or is his version idealized to the point of being unbelievable? Include research to support your claim.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the relationship between William and Esther MacDonald. Do the two have a believable relationship? What are the major sources of conflict between the two of them, if any? Use supporting details from the book to support your paper.

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