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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. How does the convict react when he hears he must return to prison, this time with an extended sentence?

2. How many of Old Ben's feet have been mangled by traps set by the hunters?

3. In what state does Ike's cousin, Fonsiba, live?

4. How long does Sam cling to life before he finally dies?

5. What was the name of the war that ended slavery in the South?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who is Ash?

2. What is the legend that surrounds Old Ben?

3. Who finally sells the land on which the hunting camp once stood?

4. What happens in the story when the young boy turns sixteen?

5. What crime does Ike accuse his grandfather or committing, and what proof does he have of this crime?

6. Who or what kills Major de Spain's colt?

7. What type of relationship do Boon and Ike have?

8. Where do the convict and the refugee stay when they leave the Red Cross boat?

9. Who is Lion, and how does he react the first time he comes face-to-face with Old Ben?

10. Who does Ike visit with as he rides through the woods one last time?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

When Hipps comes to town with the spotted horses in the story of the same name, the one heckler he meets in the crowd in a man called Ratcliff. First, describe Ratcliff's character. What motivation does Ratcliff have to heckle Hipps when he comes to town? Then, describe what has happened in Ratcliff's history that made the Texan people not take his critique of Hipps seriously. Do you think the townsfolk should have listened to Ratcliff? Why or why not? Be sure to include at least two examples from the text to strengthen your argument.

Essay Topic 2

Throughout his life, Old Ben is constantly hunted by a group of relentless hunters who believe the bear to be an almost mythical creature. First, describe the physicality of the bear and explain why he has earned himself such a legendary status. Then, explain the reaction from the hunters once they have finally felled the bear. Is the experience everything they hoped it would be? Why or why not? Be sure to include at least two examples from the text that you believe help strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 3

In the story, "The Bear", the land itself holds great significance to many of the characters in the story. Choose one character from the story and describe their relationship with the land. Where did this character learn their relationship to/with the land? How does their relationship with the land affect this character's actions and motivations throughout the story? Be sure to include at least two examples from the text that you believe help strengthen your arguments.

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