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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 long was Grandfather tortured before he was rescued?

2. After Grandfather's death, what is done to help make up for Mother's absent-mindedness?

3. What is made in the family factory?

4. During her first day at school, what is confiscated from Sookan at lunchtime?

5. Who teaches Sookan about Korean history and language?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens at lunch during Sookan's first day at school?

2. What does the family do for Haiwon's birthday?

3. Who is Sookan's teacher at school, and why is this significant?

4. Why is Mother's hairpin significant?

5. What do the factory workers try to do to prevent being taken away to become Spirit Girls?

6. Why do you think Mother did not want Inchun and Sookan to rub Grandfather's feet?

7. What does Captain Narita do to punish the family for having a party?

8. Describe Haiwon.

9. When Kisa is beaten by the Japanese army, how could this be seen as a metaphor for the Korean people?

10. Why does Mother give up her hairpin and what does she get for it?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explore and discuss examples of social class divisions within the text, being sure to touch upon:

A) Race.

B) Politics.

C) Prominence and wealth.

Essay Topic 2

Explore and discuss examples of compassion exhibited by characters within "Year of Impossible Goodbyes."

Essay Topic 3

Explain Korean history as it relates to the setting and story of "Year of Impossible Goodbyes."

(see the answer keys)

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