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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 is wrong with Andrew's momma?

2. Who is Willie Meredith?

3. How many terrible things have happened recently in Yolanda's life?

4. What does Yolanda usually have when she answers a question in class?

5. What did Andrew not know about what was in his pocket?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Shirley say about double-dutch that causes Yolanda great discomfort?

2. Who does Andrew meet when he arrives for his reading lesson?

3. What is one terrible thing that has happened lately?

4. How does Yolanda go about getting Andrew a new harmonica?

5. How does Yolanda feel in Michigan and why?

6. Why is the darker side of Asphalt Hill, and what are Andrews thoughts about that?

7. What are the skaters at Asphalt Hill's reactions to Andrew's harmonica playing?

8. How does Vic use music to make a connection with Andrew?

9. Describe Andrew's encounter with the drug pushers at Asphalt Hill.

10. How does Andrew become confused when Miss Gilluly shows him a picture of a dog?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss one of the following:

1. Trace and analyze the theme of growth in "Yolonda's Genius". 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 human genius in "Yolonda's Genius". Which characters struggle with this issue? Why? Which characters seem to possess courage? Why? What do you think Yolanda would label as genius?

3. Trace and analyze the themes of bullying and prejudice in "Yolonda's Genius". Who are bullies? Who stands up to bullies? Who does not? Why do those who bully do so? Who is prejudice? What type of prejudice? What do you think is the result of Yolanda's prejudice? Who is able to change from being a bully? From prejudice?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss one of the following:

1. Thoroughly analyze how the setting informs the plot in "Yolonda's Genius".

2. Trace and analyze one major theme of "Yolonda's Genius". How is the theme represented by symbolism? By the characters' behaviors? By the action?

3. Trace and analyze two secondary themes of "Yolonda's Genius". How are the themes represented by symbolism? By the characters' behaviors? By the action?

Essay Topic 3

Many readers of fiction place themselves in the position of one character, wondering if they would do the same thing as that character. Discuss the following:

1. Do you think one of the values of literature is to serve as a reflection of oneself? Why or why not?

2. Socrates said "Know thyself." How can reading a book such as "Yolonda's Genius" help a reader to know him/herself? Do you find yourself reflecting on your own character and abilities when reading "Yolonda's Genius"? Why or why not.

3. Choose one specific incident in "Yolonda's Genius" to discuss, and compare one of the characters' response to how you think you would respond.

(see the answer keys)

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