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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. With which family member did Benjamin work as an apprentice?

2. The Franklins had a large family. What number child was Benjamin?

3. What is the one thing that dares not enter a working man's house?

4. A lean award is better than a fat what?

5. What adjective is used to describe all types of blood?

Short Essay Questions

1. When was the original almanack published?

2. What famous poet and philosopher is paid homage by Franklin? What was the poet known for posthumously?

3. It is strongly advised for one to pay heed to which proverb dealing with faults?

4. What does the author advise his readers against in regards to overlooking the small things in life?

5. Who is Mr. Fogg? How does Franklin create a pun to illustrate a point?

6. Why has the almanack been able to stand the test of time?

7. How can one live a peaceful existence?

8. What is Franklin's opinion on meddlers? What is the reason for this opinion?

9. What is the nature of sin? According to Franklin, why is it forbidden?

10. How is a lie different than the truth in its steadfastness?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

One must be careful not to be quick to judge others or point out their faults. Part of that theory can be related to pride or humility. It can also be related to the fact that many people find it much easier to point out the faults of others than to recognize and face their own. Why is it difficult to face one's own faults? What are some faults that you see in other as well as yourself? Are there any faults in you that can be deemed irreparable or unforgivable? If so, what? What are some ways in which you might begin to recognize and repair your own faults? How can you refrain from pointing out the faults of others?

Essay Topic 2

The first edition of Poor Richard's Almanack in the form of pamphlets appeared in 1732. Although many of the sayings still hold true today, much of the language no longer applies. This is due in part to the time in which the almanacks were written as well as a combination of the Queen's and King's language. Colloquialisms are another barrier the modern reader must overcome. Discuss the colloquialisms often used by Franklin, variations on spelling and how they may make meanings unclear or difficult for the modern American reader. How might some of the sayings be adapted for today? Would you use colloquialisms or avoid them?

Essay Topic 3

The almanack states in several places that one should be careful not to act as a fool. In Franklin's eyes, a fool is not necessarily an uneducated person, rather an unwise one. Explain at least five of Franklin's sayings regarding fools and the way they conduct their lives. What is Franklin's advice about being a fool? What is the author's advice about interacting with a fool?

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