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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 Alex reveal to Brittany in the hospital room?

2. Alex learns that it was ______________ who killed his father.

3. Who is Alex's cousin marrying?

4. Who does Alex call to bail him out of jail?

5. Why does Mrs. Peterson come to see Alex in the hospital?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Brittany demoted from being pom pom captain?

2. What is the nature of the discussion between Brittany and her parents when they are at Sierra's house?

3. What is surprising for Brittany when she speaks to Alex's mother at his cousin's wedding?

4. Why has his dependence on Hector placed Alex in an even more vulnerable spot regarding the gang?

5. What is the activity that is building for a personal crisis for Alex related to the gang?

6. What happens to Alex when he leaves Mexico and returns to Illinois?

7. Why does Brittany change her mind about talking to Sierra about Alex?

8. Why does Brittany go to the garage to see Alex and what do they agree to regarding a new relationship?

9. Why is Brittany so impressed with Alex's behavior with Shelley?

10. Why does Brittany decide to break up with Alex?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain Elkeles' use of regionalism in the book. Cite examples of at least two different instances of regionalism and explain why Sanchez used them where he did.

Essay Topic 2

Violence takes on an almost human persona in this book. What was the source of the violence? How pervasive was the violence among the gangs? What is this literary technique called? Cite examples that support this position.

Essay Topic 3

Explain the role of demographics in the makeup of gangs. What is the racial demographic? What is the age demographic? Why are youths in poverty-level households more susceptible to gang influence?

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