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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 doesn't Travis want to shoot at a running deer?

2. Why do the hogs, cattle, and wild animals come to the Salt Licks?

3. Why doesn't Searcy go into the house when Mama invites him?

4. How does Travis know that Little Arliss is in trouble?

5. What does Travis do to Jumper when he decides he doesn't want to plow anymore?

Short Essay Questions

1. Summarize the fight between the two bulls.

2. Describe the agreement Little Arliss and Burn Sanderson arrange.

3. Explain why Travis doesn't want to shoot a javelina hog.

4. Explain why Travis' father is travelling to Abilene, leaving Travis in charge of the family.

5. Why do Travis and Old Yeller sleep in the corn patch?

6. Explain the disturbing news that Lisbeth gives to Travis.

7. Describe Old Yeller's appearance.

8. Summarize the warning the Burn Sanderson gives to Travis before he rides off.

9. Summarize the time Travis meets Old Yeller for the first time.

10. Describe the situation that Travis sees when he hears Little Arliss screaming and runs to help him.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

1) Write an introduction for the novel discussing Fred Gipson's writing style, use of dialogue, imagery, and the point of view of the characters.

2) How do these literary elements affect the story?

Essay Topic 2

1) Analyze the events leading up to Old Yeller's death at the end of the novel.

2) Describe the symptoms and dangers of hydrophobia as seen in the novel.

3) Explain if Travis had any other alternatives other than shooting Old Yeller in the head.

4) Is Travis justified in his killing of Old Yeller? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

1) Evaluate the relationship between Travis and his brother, Little Arliss.

2) How does Old Yeller affect their relationship with one another?

3) What event changes the way Travis views his brother and how he feels about him?

Give examples from the novel of the interaction between the two brothers.

(see the answer keys)

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