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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 happened to Breed's hut?

2. How is Walden Pond described by the locals?

3. How long do the workmen take to harvest the ice of the pond?

4. How does Thoreau describe the temperature when he began to plaster his house?

5. "Sell your clothes and keep your..."

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Thoreau admire the 'wild men' who go ice-fishing on Walden Pond?

2. Why does Thoreau's self-respect fall when he goes fishing?

3. Who is the poet with whom Thoreau has a conversation at the beginning of the chapter?

4. What does Thoreau compare the spring melt with?

5. What does Thoreau say we should practice moderation in?

6. What do the hunters say is the downfall of the fox in the foxhunt?

7. What does Thoreau say about Zilpha's life?

8. What does Thoreau think John Field's future holds?

9. How does Thoreau describe his encounters with cats in the forest?

10. Why does Thoreau describe wood as a precious commodity?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay describing an area in America or abroad that is naturally beautiful or an important part of nature. Be sure to address:

1 - Any threats to the area.

2 - Why the area should be preserved or protected.

3 - Any features that make the area unique or interesting.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay about an animal of your choice. Explain its habitat, diet and physical characteristics. How does it interact with other animals? What impact does it have on human life?

Essay Topic 3

If you tried to carry out Thoreau's experiment today, would it be possible? Why or why not? Write an essay explaining how our modern society can prevent us from living such a simplified lifestyle. Be sure to include any modern inventions that would actually assist a minimalist lifestyle.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 860 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample