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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 6, Dr. Larch writes a letter to tell Homer that Melony left the orphanage and that she took with her the only copy of what book?

2. Dr. Larch writes a letter back after receiving a donation to the orphanage revealing what about Homer in Chapter 6?

3. In response to the request of the new board members, Dr. Larch starts writing follow-up descriptions for what in Chapter 7?

4. When Homer Wells receives his survey from the board, it is the same day what who arrives at the orchard in Chapter 7?

5. To what location does Melony purchase a train ticket after leaving the orphanage in Chapter 6?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is symbolic about the trees at the orchard in Chapter 8?

2. How does Melony's relationship with Lorna parallel her relationship with Homer in Chapter 10?

3. What does Mrs. Grogan see changing in Melony in Chapter 6? Why?

4. What is discovered about the behavior of Wally Senior in Chapter 7?

5. What is symbolized in the coming of spring in Chapter 9?

6. What is Dr. Larch setting up for the character of Fuzzy Stone in Chapter 7?

7. What can Homer see has changed at St. Cloud's in Chapter 9?

8. What does Homer learn about the history of the cider house rules in Chapter 7?

9. What does Mr. Rose tell Homer about the differences in rules in Chapter 10?

10. Who begins to press Dr. Larch toward retirement in Chapter 6?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the theme of sexuality in the novel. How do Dr. Larch's first sexual experiences relate to those of Homer? How is sexuality perceived by the characters? What are the consequences of sexuality seen in the novel?

Essay Topic 2

Describe, analyze and discuss the character of Melony in the novel. How old is Melony when she is introduced in Chapter 3? What is Melony's relationship with Homer? How did the disappointments of Melony's adoptive parents contribute to her attitude towards life? What are Dr. Larch's feelings about Melony?

Essay Topic 3

Describe and analyze the character of Homer Wells in the narrative. How old is Homer when he is introduced in Chapter 1? When was Homer brought to the orphanage? How many times is Homer adopted and why do his adoptive parents bring him back to the orphanage?

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