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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 does Travis' father ask him to do while he is away?

2. What is Little Arliss' reaction when they get back to the cabin?

3. When does Travis begin to love Old Yeller?

4. What is the solution Travis comes up with that finally keeps Old Yeller at home during the night?

5. Why had Papa cleared out all the brush and trees from around the cabin?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Tavis do when the bulls start fighting near the cabin?

2. Summarize why Mama names the area in which they live Birdsong Creek.

3. Explain why Travis doesn't want another dog.

4. Summarize the items that Little Arliss brings home in his pockets.

5. Describe what Travis reveals about his relationship with Old Yeller in the beginning of the chapter.

6. Describe how Travis treats Old Yeller after the dog saves Little Arliss.

7. Describe Little Arliss' reaction to Burn Sanderson's news.

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

9. Describe why Travis goes to the Salt Licks to hunt for deer.

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

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) 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.

Essay Topic 3

Old Yeller is a constant throughout the novel. He is mentioned from the very first chapter to the last chapter.

1) Explain the different images Gipson gives of Old Yeller as the book progresses.

2) What is the significance of Old Yeller's character in each part of the novel?

3) What meaning does Old Yeller have for Little Arliss, Travis, and Mama?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 736 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample