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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. How does Cal's mentor describe Beth?

2. Why does Conrad get into a fight?

3. Who does Conrad meet in chapter 20?

4. What do Conrad and Jeanine discuss on their date?

5. What does Beth decide to do in chapter 31?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Jeanine upset about her mom's guest?

2. What are Cal's hopes for his vacation with Beth in Texas?

3. How does Conrad receive reassurance from Cal?

4. Describe Conrad's first date with Jeanine.

5. Why will Beth never forgive Conrad?

6. In chapter 19, Cal realizes why he is so worried about Conrad. What does he realize?

7. Why doesn't Beth say goodbye to Conrad when she leaves?

8. Describe Conrad's reaction to Karen's death.

9. Why does Conrad feel vulnerable after Karen's suicide?

10. Which parent does Conrad fear most?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How is the title "Ordinary People" relevant to the novel's content? Why do you think the novel is called "Ordinary People"?

Essay Topic 2

Compare the relationship Cal and Beth have in the beginning of the novel with the relationship they have at the end. How does it change? How does it stay the same?

Essay Topic 3

Throughout the novel, the focal point changes back and forth from Conrad to Cal. Why does Judith Guest switch back and forth between the two characters? Is this an effective technique used to tell the story?

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