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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. As Tim approaches the stockade, he __________________ and throws the bayonet over the wall.

2. What news do Mrs. Meeker and Tim receive in June of 1777?

3. Who is the General Sam serves under?

4. Which of the following does not portray war in this book?

5. Which of the following things has not worn down Mrs. Meeker's spirit?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Tim exhibit that he has the qualities to become the man of the house?

2. Why does Tim begin to resent his new life?

3. What effort did Sam make to try to save Father after he heard about his capture?

4. What are Tim's personal frustrations as the war drags on and on?

5. What are Tim's options when faced with the critical decision after his father disappears?

6. Describe Mother's state of mind at this point in the story.

7. What are the circumstances surrounding Tim's transition from a child to an adult?

8. What is an irony related to Sam's trial?

9. What happens to Tim and Mother after the war is over?

10. What are the dire straits for people like Mother and Tim?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Sam takes Brown Bess, Father's gun, which is an affront to the family on several levels. Describe the physical and psychological effect this one act of theft has on the Meeker family.

Essay Topic 2

Mother says that Sam and Father are very much alike but as time passes Tim also shows characteristics of his father. Describe how Tim is very much like his Father. Is he like Mother or Sam in any ways? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Write a character description of Sam Meeker. What are his motivations and convictions? What are his character flaws? In what ways is he heroic?

(see the answer keys)

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