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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 1932, what are the two armies that Helmuth's tin soldiers represent?

2. In 1938 what does Herr Vinke do when Helmuth asks why a solider does not let the flag fall and save himself?

3. In 1938, how old is Gerhard?

4. In 1933, when does Hitler become chancellor of Germany?

5. At the end of February 1933, what does Helmuth dream about?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who is Hugo Hubener?

2. After a radio speech Hitler makes in 1933, what does Helmuth's grandfather say about Hitler?

3. In 1938 what does Hugo say about God and Germany?

4. In 1932, what suggestion does Gerhard make when he sees Helmuth playing with toy soldiers?

5. Where is Helmuth on Day 264 in 1942 and what is he thinking?

6. In 1939 what happens to revenge the death of Nazi official, Ernst vom Rath?

7. What is Helmuth waiting for at school on January 30, 1933, and what does he learn?

8. When the Reichstag burns in 1933, what decrees does Hitler make?

9. In 1942, what does Helmuth do when a loud bell clangs?

10. In 1932, what does Helmuth imagine as he plays with his soldiers and Gerhard reads?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Mood is an element that authors use to evoke feelings in readers through the use of sensory language. What is the overall mood of the novel? Does the mood change throughout the story? What emotions does the mood evoke in readers and why?

Essay Topic 2

Helmuth and his mother sometimes retreat into silence rather than argue. When are some times that Helmuth and his mother retreat into silence? With whom are they most likely to be silent? Why are they silent rather than standing up for what they believe?

Essay Topic 3

At the trial, Helmuth takes full responsibility for his actions. Why does he decide to take all responsibility for the pamphlets and their distribution? What does he hope to accomplish by taking the blame, and does he succeed in achieving his purpose?

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