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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. Why did the cattle move so slowly?

2. What does Pa say about the old trail by the house?

3. Who is giving Laura medicine when she wakes up one day?

4. What kind of special treat does Pa bring from Independence?

5. Who is taking care of the family when they are sick?

Short Essay Questions

1. What do Pa and Mr. Scott hit before they get water in the well and what does Laura think of the water?

2. What does Pa do after the Indians quiet down and some leave? Who does he meet and what does Pa find out about the Indians?

3. What happens one day when the chimney catches on fire?

4. How does Jack, Pa and Ma feel about all the Indians going down the trail?

5. Why do the girls worry about Christmas and the family worry about Mr. Edwards?

6. How does the Ingalls family become sick?

7. What keeps the family awake for several nights and what does Laura see when it finally stops?

8. What do Mary and Laura do with their findings from the Indian village?

9. What do Mr. Scott and Mr. Edwards think about the prairie and what how do they feel about the Indians getting together?

10. How does a prairie fire appear and what do Ma and Pa do about it? What is the result of their efforts?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Characters are an important part of what makes Little House on the Prairie interesting. Discuss the following:

Thoroughly discuss and analyze Laura. What are her strengths and weaknesses? How does she contribute to the plot? Is she a sympathetic character? Is she usually likable? Seldom likable? Use specific examples to illustrate your ideas. Use the same criteria to thoroughly discuss and analyze Pa and Ma.

Essay Topic 2

Many readers of fiction place themselves in the position of one character, wondering if they would do the same thing as that character. Discuss the following:

Do you think one of the values of literature is to serve as a reflection of oneself? Why or why not? Socrates said "Know thyself." How can reading a book such as Little House on the Prairie help a reader to know him/herself? Do you find yourself reflecting on your own character and abilities when reading Little House on the Prairie? With which characters do you identify most? Why? Use examples from Little House on the Prairie to support your answer.

Essay Topic 3

No matter what happens to the Ingalls family, they exhibit a hardy pioneer spirit as they pursue their American dream. They essentially risk their lives for a chance at owning land in virgin territory.

Discuss, in depth, the reason the Ingalls are willing to risk so much by moving to Indian territory. Consider the meaning of pioneer spirit in your answer. Use examples from Little House on the Prairie to support your answer.

(see the answer keys)

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