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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. Who introduces herself to Melinda in "First Marking Period"?

2. What does Melinda think would make David Petrakis cute?

3. What class does Melinda hate?

4. Why is the clan expensive to belong to?

5. What does Rachel seem to say to Melinda as Melinda spies her?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the results of Melinda's participation in job day and how does Melinda feel about the event?

2. What is Heather's plan for Melinda and herself?

3. What are some names Melinda comes up with for groups of students in the auditorium, and to what group does she belong?

4. How does Melinda refer to her teachers?

5. What class would Melinda avoid if possible and why?

6. How does Melinda's former friend Rachel respond to Melinda in "First Marking Period"?

7. What happens to Melinda in the cafeteria at lunch on the first day of school?

8. Who are the Marthas and why does Melinda talk about them?

9. Why does Melinda decorate the faculty lounge with Heather and what do the Marthas say about Melinda?

10. Who is Melinda's lab partner and how does she feel about her lab partner?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the following:

1. What do you think are the characteristics of a successful novel?

2. Analyze and discuss Speak based upon the criteria you decide upon in #1 and judge if Speak is a successful novel.

3. Do you think the criteria for a successful novel should be different if it is written for young teens versus adults? Why or why not? Would most adults consider Speak a successful novel? What about young teens?

Essay Topic 2

The theme of rape is woven throughout Speak and plays a pivotal role in every aspect of the book. Discuss the following:

1. Trace and analyze the theme of rape throughout Speak. How does the rape of Melinda play out in her daily life? How does it change her? Are there any positive aspects of Melinda's experience as a rape victim? What?

2. The title, Speak, succinctly sums up another aspect of the theme of rape. Why do you think Melinda and so many other girls/women are afraid or unwilling to speak up about being raped?

3. What do you think should happen to Andy Evans? Is he evil or mentally ill? Do you think he should go to prison or a place where he can receive mental therapy? What do you think makes a person rape? Could Andy have suffered abuse himself?

Essay Topic 3

Peer pressure and bullying are obvious factors in how Melinda is treated and how Melinda responds to a new school environment and the other students. Discuss the following:

1. Is peer pressure as strong a presence in the school system now as it was before the advent of classes about the topic? Do you think Melinda's school does anything to address the issue of both peer pressure and bullying?

2. Are you aware of the extent of either peer pressure or bullying in your school or in your school experience if you are no longer in high school?

3. Do you think adults suffer from peer pressure? Why or why not? What types of "peer pressure" might adults experience?

(see the answer keys)

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