View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where does Ralph go to look for saddles for Lonnie and himself?

2. What does Ralph think the person in #73 is trying to do?

3. What does Mr. Larsen give to Ralph and Lonnie before they leave town?

4. In what city does Ralph meet Lonnie?

5. Who arrives at the movie set that night?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Ralph give the train conductor a gift and what gift does he give?

2. Why does Ralph question whether or not the car was a wise purchase?

3. What advice does the train conductor give to Ralph about finding a job on a ranch?

4. How does the mechanic back out on his deal with the boys, and what does he do to try to keep the boys from taking the car?

5. Why does Lonnie have to walk back to Mesa the next day?

6. What job is Ted having a hard time filling on the movie set and how much could Ralph earn is he were willing to do it?

7. What does Ralph teach himself to do at the movie set?

8. Why does a doctor order Ralph to stay in bed for a week and what does Ralph do to pass the time?

9. What does Ralph negotiate for the next day as Lonnie works on the car?

10. What does Mr. Larsen do to help the boys get the car back and then send them on their way?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

"Shaking the Nickel Bush" is a classic story of coming of age. What does that classification entail? Why does this novel fit into this category? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

Moody is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphors, and irony, briefly describe them and identify the technique which they embody.

Essay Topic 3

There is much symbolism in this story, especially the car. Cite at least three examples of symbolism and support your answers.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 915 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample