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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. In Chapter 1, where does Jessie say her family lived before Clifton?

2. Why does Ma suggest Jessie meet with Mr. Neely in Chapter 5?

3. What do the haunted trees in Clifton surround?

4. In Chapter 6, what rumor does Jessie overhear about Clifton?

5. Why does Hannah think Pa won't build a new house?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Ma reveal to Jessie about Clifton?

2. What does Jessie think when she first sees a row of school buses?

3. What does Jessie do after leaving the bathroom in Chapter 7?

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

5. In Chapter 1, how is Clifton described?

6. How does Jessie get inside the bread truck?

7. Why does Ma tell Jessie to find Mr. Neely?

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

9. How does Jessie avoid being caught by Clifton security in Chapter 6?

10. What does Ma give Jessie before she leaves Clifton?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

Explore the symbolism used in "Running Out of Time". Consider the symbolic value of rocks, trees and cars. Why does the author use this device?

Essay Topic 3

Analyze the title, "Running Out of Time", in relationship to the events of this novel. What makes the title appropriate? How is the title symbolic?

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