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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In additional to regionalism, what has Steinbeck noticed about America so far during his trip?
(a) Industriousness
(b) Creative differences
(c) A spirit of giving
(d) A bland oneness

2. What does Steinbeck see beneath the bluster and brag of the Texans he knows?
(a) Intelligence
(b) Sensitivity
(c) Bad tempers
(d) Ignorance

3. Why does Steinbeck decide not to visit a friend in Louisiana?
(a) He has to get to a gas station.
(b) He needs to make up for lost time.
(c) He doesn't think he would be welcomed.
(d) It is not a place to be seen with New York license plates.

4. Where does Steinbeck get lost in heavy traffic?
(a) Green Bay
(b) Detroit
(c) Chicago
(d) Minneapolis-St. Paul

5. What is the name of the group giving disturbing speeches?
(a) The Republicans
(b) The Democrats
(c) The Toastmasters
(d) The Cheerleaders

Short Answer Questions

1. What starts to slow Steinbeck's progress?

2. Why has Steinbeck's visit disturbed his family?

3. Where does Steinbeck head after leaving California?

4. Where does Steinbeck head after spending the night among the sequoias?

5. Near what river does Steinbeck spend the night?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is the rock with the mica in it so important to Steinbeck?

2. What lessons does Steinbeck learn about house trailers in 1960 that could also apply to 2009?

3. What two national attractions does Steinbeck visit before leaving Montana?

4. How does Steinbeck perceive Seattle?

5. What is the irony of the situation Steinbeck encounters at the Canadian border?

6. How does Steinbeck justify his opinion that the river crossing at Bismarck is the true demarcation between east and west?

7. Explain the irony in the scene where Steinbeck and Charley explore a sequoia grove.

8. What does Steinbeck learn about truckers when he takes breaks at roadside rest stops?

9. What dashes Steinbeck's hopes for a good visit with his family?

10. What is the purpose of Steinbeck's stop in Texas?

(see the answer keys)

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