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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. Why does Jessie walk on the grass while leaving Clifton?

2. In Chapter 6, when does Jessie try to find a bathroom?

3. In Chapter 7, what sounds confuses Jessie?

4. How does Miles Clifton keep Clifton residents from escaping?

5. Why does Jessie say Mr. Steward once spanked her?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Chapter 1, what rule does Ma have for Jessie coming with her on a house call?

2. What does Ma tell Jessie after they leave the Bentons' in Chapter 1?

3. In Chapter 7, what makes Jessie feel better about leaving Clifton?

4. How does Jessie escape from Clifton?

5. In Chapter 8, what does Jessie realize about her life in Clifton?

6. In Chapter 6, what things does Jessie overhear Clifton employees talk about?

7. What does Ma reveal to Jessie about Clifton?

8. In Chapter 5, what does Ma tell Jessie about clothing?

9. In Chapter 9, what does Jessie realize about the trees she thought were haunted her entire life?

10. In Chapter 8, how does Jessie almost give away her true identity?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How does "Running Out of Time" present a commentary on science, scientific development and evolution? Consider the ideals of the characters as well as the different opinions in the novel on this subject. What message does the author seem to suggest regarding science?

Essay Topic 2

Analyze "Running Out of Time" as a thriller. How does this novel fit within the description of the genre? Are there other genres that may represent this novel better? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Compare and contrast the author's use of dialog to her use of descriptive passages. What are the strengths of each type of narration? When are they used? How do they develop the plot and characters of this novel?

(see the answer keys)

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