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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. For what does Ma say they planned to use the bundle of furs the Indians did not take?

2. Where does Mr. Edwards tell the girls Santa said he last saw Edwards?

3. Why are the cowboys singing?

4. What do the girls wear to bed?

5. What did Mr. Edwards bring with him to contribute to the meal?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Pa agree to do for the cattlemen who come by the house and what do they offer him?

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

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

4. Where does Pa take Mary and Laura in Chapter 14 and what do they find there?

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

6. What can the settlers hear from the Indians and how are the settlers feeling about what they hear?

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

8. What does Pa say is the scream and how is the problem solved?

9. How does the family almost lose the furs Pa has collected and what do they lose?

10. Why does Pa go to the Scotts’ in the middle of the night?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

Essay Topic 2

Little House on the Prairie belongs to the historical fiction genre. Discuss the following:

Define the literary term "genre" and name three other genres in addition to the historical fiction genre. What are the advantages and disadvantages of assigning a genre to a novel? What do you think is the difference between a historical fiction and a science fiction novel or a mystery?

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

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