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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 1812, Chapman ran thirty miles to warn settlers of the approach of troops, a feat known as _______.

2. The early colonists to America in addition to bringing grafts also brought apple seeds to plant called ______.

3. ______, which contains a much higher amount of alcohol than hard cider, could be obtained through freezing.

4. Appleseed had originally come west from the state of _____ when he was 23 years old.

5. According to the book, the word _____ is a corruption of the Turkish word for Turban.

Short Essay Questions

1. What are the four important classes of domesticated plants which influenced the way in which Pollan chose the plants for the book?

2. How does Pollan describe the particular patch of garden versus the plants one finds in nature?

3. What is the question which arises in Pollan's mind when he thinks about planting and growing the potatoes?

4. Why might it be possible to say that the plants are more evolved than humans are at this point in time?

5. What are the colors and the shapes of flowers designed to do, according to some scientists?

6. How did the tulip bulb end up coming into Holland, even though it was not a native plant in the area?

7. What does Pollan find to be mythical about the story of Johnny Appleseed, although it is a true story?

8. Why did Jews and Christians have troubles admitting to the beauty of flowers within their celebrations?

9. What was the way in which the tulip was able to get ahead when it was a part of the Ottoman Empire?

10. What is the origin of the domesticated apple, although this is certainly a point which is up for contention?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The section on apples seems to be more of a memoir of the life of the apple than a serious scientific study of its origins.

Part 1: Why do you think that Pollan chose the apple over other fruits?

Part 2: How do you think the apple has changed your own life? Can it be more revolutionary in the future for you?

Part 3: Have any fruits changed or reshaped the way your life has turned out?

Essay Topic 2

Americans seem to have a clear idea as to what a 'normal' potato might look like.

Part 1: Why do you think Americans have been brought up to think of the potato in that one way?

Part 2: How do you feel about the potato? What do you think a potato should look and taste like?

Part 3: Do you feel the potato is an essential part of your diet? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Marijuana, though illegal, is tolerated in many parts of the world, including the United States.

Part 1: Why do you think marijuana is tolerated in so many parts of the world?

Part 2: Do you agree that marijuana should be tolerated in society?

Part 3: How do you think the marijuana plant can or cannot help society as a whole?

(see the answer keys)

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