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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. What time does Boaz head back up to this room?

2. What kind of relationship did Boaz and his mother used to have?

3. Why is Levi thrilled about Boaz?

4. Who does Levi usually meet with to compare homework?

5. What do the Goldblatts do when Pearl is eleven months old?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Boaz act at dinner and what does he do after he's done eating?

2. What does Zim say to Levi's statement about Boaz and how does Levi respond?

3. Who comes to spend Shabbat with Levi's family and what is he like?

4. What did Mrs. Bowers talk about in glowing terms?

5. Why is Levi conflicted about attending a party and what does he decide?

6. How do Amanda and Abba respond differently to Boaz's behavior?

7. Who is Pearl and what is her relationship to Levi?

8. What happens when Amanda knocks on Boaz's door and why is this different than Boaz used to be?

9. What happens when Amanda spots the sign honoring Boaz?

10. What is Boaz's response to Dov wanting to take the boys out to eat?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Adjusting to life as a civilian is difficult for Boaz. He stays in his room and sleeps, but he is probably just avoiding talking about his experience. He's not ready to discuss it yet. But his silence, just like his military service, is impacting the family. His mother is worried, but keeps reminding herself that at least he's home. Abba doesn't understand why his son is isolating himself and isn't just his old self. Levi is confused and hurt. Boaz's apparent depression is making Levi feel guilty.

1. Discuss why adjusting to civilian life might be difficult for Boaz. Use examples from The Things a Brother Knows and your own life to support your answer.

2. How do you think Boaz's silence is affecting his family? Use examples from The Things a Brother Knows and your own life to support your answer.

3. Compare Boaz's parents reactions to his behavior and why you think his mother and father are reacting differently. Use examples from The Things a Brother Knows and your own life to support your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss one of the following:

1. Trace and analyze the theme of growth in The Things a Brother Knows. Consider the following questions as you write: What characters are most concerned with growth? Why? What are some symbols of growth? Symbols of rigidity? What characters seem rigid?

2. Trace and analyze the theme of courage in The Things a Brother Knows. Which characters struggle with this issue? Why? Which characters seem to possess courage? Why?

3. Trace and analyze the theme family in The Things a Brother Knows. Consider family as not only those related by blood but also those related by friendship bonds.

Essay Topic 3

Seventeen-year-old Levi's older brother is coming home after three years in the service and serving in the war. Levi is cautious with his feelings. He used to look up to his brother, but Boaz' decision to join the military has had a very negative impact on the family. Levi doesn't understand the war, why it was necessary or why his brother would volunteer to be part of it.

It is obvious that Levi harbors a good deal of bitterness about his brother's decision. His mother has been worrying non-stop for three years. Levi thinks deep down that Boaz' decision was selfish.

1. Discuss the impact Boaz joining the Marines had on his family. Use examples from The Things a Brother Knows and your own life to support your answer.

2. Discuss the reasons Boaz might have volunteered for the Marines and the reasons Levi might not agree with the war. Use examples from The Things a Brother Knows and your own life to support your answer.

3. Do you think Boaz was selfish for joining the military? Why or why not? Use examples from The Things a Brother Knows and your own life to support your answer.

(see the answer keys)

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