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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 is the name of Richard's airplane?

2. Over what body of water does Richard paraglide?

3. Shepherd asks Richard to sign a book for whom?

4. Who does Shepherd say wrote Richard's book?

5. The cracked dry earth where Dickie lives symbolizes _______________________.

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Richard want to do for Dickie and why will this be a daunting task?

2. Why is Dickie sad about giving the memories to Richard?

3. What does Dickie manage to teach to Richard even though Richard is providing instruction during the flight?

4. What is the first real bonding experience between Richard and Dickie?

5. What does Richard have to promise Dickie in order for Dickie to turn over another memory?

6. Describe Dickie's sense of accomplishment in the water tower incident.

7. What philosophy about numbers does Richard share with Dickie?

8. What is Richard's memory of the water tower?

9. What is Richard's pattern for dealing with life's challenges, and how can Dickie possibly help him in this area?

10. When Leslie prods him, what memories does Richard recall that might be the source of Dickie's anger?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses several instances of foreshadowing in the story. Explain what foreshadowing is and cite at least two examples making sure to explain what makes each an instance of foreshadowing.

Essay Topic 2

Richard used more than one iteration on the theme of loss. Identify at least two examples about loss in the book and then explain why the examples support the theme.

Essay Topic 3

Create a brief character study of Dickie. What did he look like? What were his positive personality traits? What were some of his negative characteristics? What were his hopes and fears? What were his primary interests and attitudes?

(see the answer keys)

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