English 2 Final Exam
According to "Revenge of the Geeks," what do Taylor Swift, Tim Gunn, and J.K. Rowling have in common? a. They are all famous and successful musicians who were once outcasts. b. They are all celebrities who attend the "nerd prom known as Comic Con." c. They all have traits that made them unpopular in high school but led to success as adults. d. They were all shy students in high school who spent a lot of time reading and daydreaming.
C
After which event in "Where Is Here?" does the father announce forcefully, "The visit is over"? a. the stranger's entrance into the house b. the stranger's statement that there used be a water stain on the wall c. the stranger's request to sit on the basement steps d. the stranger's bursting into tears
C
As explained in "Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century," what do ports, marketplaces, and trade routes represent? a. an awareness of the similarities among diverse people b. an effort to obtain material superiority c. proof of the choice to cooperate with other people d. the triumph of hospitality over aggression
C
At the beginning of "The Fall of the House of Usher," what does the narrator do? a. He helps Roderick Usher bury Roderick's sister Madeline in a vault. b. He listens to Roderick Usher's improvisations on the guitar. c. He travels to visit Roderick Usher at Usher's family home. d. He travels with Roderick Usher to visit Usher's family home.
C
If baseball players are stoical in the face of their team's defeat, which of the following must be true? Base your answer on the meaning of stoical. a. The players thank the fans for their support. b. The players accuse the other team of cheating. c. The players show no emotion after the game. d. The players begin practicing for the next game.
C
In "Revenge of the Geeks," which evidence best supports the author's claim that "the characteristics that marginalize [geeks] can pay off after graduation"? a. The qualities that make people different make them targets. b. Popular students are more likely than outsiders to conform. c. Gamers know how to problem-solve and collaborate. d. Schools should find better ways to nurture outsiders.
C
In "The Doll's House," why are the Kelvey girls treated so badly? a. The other girls are jealous of their unusual, carefree lives. b. They do not conform to the beauty standards of the day. c. Their family is poor and considered very low class. d. They are boastful children who often misbehave.
C
In "The Necklace," what decision do the Loisels make after they fail to find the lost necklace? a. They decide to admit they lost the necklace. b. They decide to buy a cheap imitation. c. They decide to replace it. d. They decide to flee the country.
C
In the opening scene of "The Metamorphosis," what do Gregor's thoughts and long speeches reveal most clearly about his personality? a. He is careful and methodical about everything he does. b. He is self-reliant and resents others telling him what to do. c. He is indecisive and tends to overthink his actions. d. He is proud of his job and very successful at it.
C
In which sentence are the underlined words auxiliary verbs? a. Although Kafka was not a German citizen, he wrote in German. b. He studied to become a lawyer and worked days at an insurance company. c. If Kafka had not died at the age of forty, he might have produced more masterpieces like "The Metamorphosis." d. Kafka, like many writers, wrote his books in the evenings and other spare time.
C
Malik bought his mother some flowers, and she enjoyed their fragrance. In which of these answer choices does the underlined word have the same denotation as fragrance but a clearly opposite connotation? a. Dion used a new spice when he made dinner for his family, and they praised the flavor. b. Melanie breathed in the aroma of freshly baked bread as she walked past the bakery. c. Arjun knew from the stench of the leftovers that it was time to clean the refrigerator. d. Freddie agrees that the interior of a new car has a special odor, but he does not like it.
C
Which of these quotations best expresses the central idea of "Revenge of the Geeks"? a. For many, ... high school is the "first foray into the adult world where [kids] have to think about their own status." b. Geeks profit from their technological knowhow. c. In the adult world, being out is in. d. [Students] need to know before graduation that being different is not a problem but a strength.
D
How do the family members in "The Metamorphosis" justify their decision to get rid of the insect? a. They are afraid that the insect will try to kill them. b. They convince themselves that the insect is not Gregor. c. They can no longer afford to feed the insect. d. They believe that if they do so, Gregor will return.
B
In "The Doll's House," what can readers tell about Aunt Beryl from her reaction to the doll's house when the Burnells first receive it? a. She is sweet and generous. b. She often complains. c. She is a very practical person. d. She is nostalgic for childhood.
B
In "The Doll's House," which of the following most likely drives Kezia's attempt to let the Kelvey girls see the doll's house? a. her rebellious nature b. her desire to be kind c. her need to show off d. her wish to act superior
B
The guests gathered around the table. The dinner was served. Which sentence shows a semicolon correctly used to combine the sentences? a. The guests gathered; around the table the dinner was served. b. The guests gathered around the table; the dinner was served. c. The guests gathered around; the table the dinner was served. d. The guests gathered around the table and; the dinner was served.
B
Unlike his character Gregor, Kafka actually did well at one insurance company. Which of the following revisions of the sample sentence includes a verb phrase with an auxiliary verb or verbs? a. Kafka, unlike his character Gregor, actually did well at one insurance company. b. Kafka must have been unlike his character Gregor, because Kafka actually did well at one insurance company. c. Kafka was not like his character Gregor, because Kafka actually did well at one insurance company. d. Kafka actually did well at one insurance company, unlike his character Gregor.
B
We don't view a saxophonist as musically challenged if he can't play the violin. He's just a different kind of musician. A sprinter is still an athlete even if she can't play basketball. She's a different kind of athlete. Which of the following techniques does the author use most clearly in making her point? a. exaggeration b. parallel structure c. variation d. conflict
B
What view of warfare does the author express in "Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century"? a. Warfare is unfortunate for everyone involved but sometimes necessary. b. Warfare is a disaster that is caused by people's refusal to understand and identify with the Other. c. Warfare comes about any time people view the Other as subhuman or not human at all. d. Warfare is the inevitable result of people's lack of control over their greed.
B
Which of the following is the best example of a person behaving amiably? a. LaTasha prepared carefully for her role in the school play. b. Dolores offered to share the last slice of cake with Mike. c. Amahl gave a fascinating class presentation on sea creatures. d. Patrick complained to the waiter that his soup was cold.
B
Which of the following situations could best be used to illustrate the meaning of amelioration? Base your answer on the meaning of amelioration. a. a blow to the head of a falling person b. a cold drink of water to a thirsty person c. a change of scenery to a confused person d. a look in the mirror to an angry person
B
What is the main trait that makes some teenagers unpopular, according to "Revenge of the Geeks"? a. being aggressive b. being different c. being a gossip d. being shy
B
According to "Revenge of the Geeks," which of the following characteristics benefit geeks later in life? Choose three options. a. confidence b. intelligence c. leadership ability d. ability to conform e. problem-solving skills f. technological understanding
B E F
Part A In "The Metamorphosis," Gregor's parents and sister eventually are able to make their own living without Gregor's earnings. What do their efforts reveal about them? Part B Which quotation from the text best supports the answer to Part A? (CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS E THROUGH H.) a. (Part A) They are relieved at the thought that they no longer have to be in debt to Gregor. b. (Part A) They have no idea about what to do with their lives without Gregor to support and guide them. c. (Part A) They become determined and self-reliant instead of allowing a difficult situation to defeat them. d. (Part A) They are too snobbish to adjust to poverty, so they seek someone to support them as Gregor once did. e. (Part B) But now he [the father] was standing up really straight, dressed in a tight fitting blue uniform with gold buttons, ... like the one servants wear in a banking company ... Bent far over, the mother sewed fine undergarments for a fashion shop. The sister, who had taken on a job as a salesgirl, in the evening studied stenography and French, so as perhaps later to obtain a better position. f. (Part B) the main thing holding the family back from a change in living quarters was far more their complete hopelessness and the idea that they had been struck by a misfortune like no one else in their entire circle of relatives and acquaintances. g. (Part B) What the world demands of poor people they now carried out to an extreme degree. The father brought breakfast to the petty officials at the bank, the mother sacrificed herself for the undergarments of strangers, the sister behind her desk was at the beck and call of customers, but the family's energies did not extend any further. h. (Part B) "We must try to get rid of it," the sister now said decisively to the father, for the mother ... wasn't listening to anything. "It is killing you both. I see it coming. When people work as hard as we all do, they cannot also tolerate this endless torment at home. I just can't go on any more."
C E
Part A In "The Necklace," how does Monsieur Loisel react to the party? (CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS A THROUGH D.)Part B Which passage from the story best supports the answer to Part A? (CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS E THROUGH H.) a. (Part A) He is embarrassed by his wife's plain clothing. b. (Part A) He despises the party and the people who attend it. c. (Part A) He becomes tired and bored with the party after a while. d. (Part A) He enjoys the party thoroughly and does not want to leave. e. (Part B) "Why, I thought you'd be pleased, dear. You never go out and this would be an occasion for you, a great one! I had a lot of trouble getting it. Everyone wants an invitation: they're in great demand and there are only a few reserved for the employees. All the officials will be there." f. (Part B) The day of the party arrived. Madame Loisel was a great success. She was the prettiest woman there—resplendent, graceful, beaming, and deliriously happy. All the men looked at her, asked who she was, tried to get themselves introduced to her. All the minister's aides wanted to waltz with her. The minister himself noticed her. g. (Part B) When she left the party, it was almost four in the morning. Her husband had been sleeping since midnight in a small, deserted sitting room, with three other gentlemen whose wives were having a wonderful time. h. (Part B) He brought her wraps so that they could leave and put them around her shoulders—the plain wraps from her everyday life whose shabbiness jarred with the elegance of her evening dress.
C G
In the beginning of "Where Is Here?," what does the stranger say that he would like to do? a. take photographs of the house b. make an offer to buy the house c. meet the children d. poke around
D
Which event demonstrates the surprise ending in "The Necklace"? a. Madame Loisel tells Madame Forestier that she had lost the necklace that her friend had lent to her. b. Madame Loisel tells Madame Forestier that she had had a very hard life because she had to replace the lost necklace. c. Madame Forestier does not recognize her old friend Madame Loisel because Madame Loisel has aged so much. d. Madame Forestier tells Madame Loisel that the necklace that had been lost was a fake that was worth very little.
D
He [Gregor] remembered his family with deep feeling and love. In this business, his own thought that he had to disappear was, if possible, even more decisive than his sister's. What does this quotation suggest about Gregor's state of mind just before his death? Choose two options. a. He blames his family for neglecting him. b. He dies believing he will once again become human. c. He dies feeling angry, abandoned, and bitter. d. He struggles to stay alive despite his pain and suffering. e. He wishes to sacrifice himself for his family's sake. f. He regains his emotional attachment to his family.
E F
gregarious
fond of company; sociable
amiably
in a friendly manner
pariah
outcast
"Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century" makes the claim that humans have had problems learning how to coexist peacefully with those who differ from them. Which of the following quotations best expresses that claim? a. [A] weakness ... appears to a differing degree in all cultures: the fact that cultures have difficulty understanding other cultures. b. The encounter with the Other, with other people, has always been a universal and fundamental experience for our species. c. People thus had three choices when they encountered the Other: They could choose war, they could build a wall around themselves, or they could enter into dialogue. d. That same choice that our ancestors faced thousands of years ago faces us today as well, with undiminished intensity ... How should we act toward Others?
A
At the beginning of "The Necklace," why is Madame Loisel constantly unhappy? a. She longs to be wealthy. b. Her health is often poor. c. She longs for more friends. d. Her husband is unkind.
A
Choose the sentence in which the semicolon has been correctly placed. a. Megan stood outside the movie theater; her friends were late again. b. Megan stood outside; the movie theater her friends were late again. c. Megan stood outside the movie theater her friends; were late again. d. Megan; stood outside the movie theater her friends were late again.
A
He brought her wraps so that they could leave and put them around her shoulders—the plain wraps from her everyday life whose shabbiness jarred with the elegance of her evening dress. She felt this and wanted to escape quickly so that the other women, who were enveloping themselves in their rich furs, wouldn't see her. Loisel held her back. "Wait a minute. You'll catch cold out there. I'm going to call a cab. "But she wouldn't listen to him and went hastily downstairs. What underlying meaning does the coat most likely represent in this story? a. Madame Loisel's embarrassment over her situation in life. b. Madame Loisel's failure to appreciate the good things in life. c. Madame Loisel's indifference to her own health and well-being. d. Madame Loisel's ecstatic enjoyment of the good things in life.
A
In "Elliptical," who are the most likely speakers, and about whom are they most likely speaking? a. Mainstream society seems to be speaking about a group it looks down on. b. Recent immigrants seem to be speaking about those who were born here. c. Elected officials seem to be speaking about their political opponents. d. Oppressed people seem to be speaking about their oppressors.
A
In the following excerpt from "Where Is Here?," the stranger recalls looking through the colored glass in the fanlight and noticing how the colors alter the outside world: "After such a lesson it's hard to take the world on its own terms, isn't it?" he asked. The father asked, annoyed, "On what terms should it be taken, then?" The stranger replied, regarding him levelly, with a just perceptible degree of disdain, "Why, none at all. "Which of the following statements best explains the effect of this dialogue on the reader's understanding of the stranger? a. It helps the reader appreciate how difficult it is for others to understand the stranger. b. It helps the reader understand how hard the stranger struggles to make himself understood by others. c. It helps the reader appreciate the strong effect the stranger's childhood has had on him. d. It helps the reader understand how much smarter the stranger is than those around him.
A
Lucy hesitantly peeked into the living room, not wanting to disturb her sleeping grandmother, who usually spent the afternoon napping in an overstuffed armchair. Which of the following gives an adverb from the sentence along with the adjective from which it is formed? a. hesitantly (hesitant) b. into (in) c. usually (use) d. living (live)
A
Read the following sentence from "The Fall of the House of Usher," in which the narrator explains that he has received a letter from Roderick Usher. A letter, however, had lately reached me in a distant part of the country—a letter from him—which, in its wildly importunate nature, had admitted of no other than a personal reply. What is the most likely reason the narrator says the letter "admitted of no other than a personal reply"? Base your answer on your knowledge of the story as well as on the sentence. a. The narrator feels obliged to respond to his friend's request for a visit because his friend is clearly upset. b. The narrator hopes his friend will invite him to stay in the distant part of the country where his friend lives. c. The narrator believes that his friend is threatening to harm him if he does not give the right answer. d. The narrator is worried that it will seem rude if he does not answer the letter in a personal way.
A
Read this paragraph from the introductory section of "Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century. "Should they throw themselves in fury on those other people? Or walk past dismissively and keep going? Or rather try to get to know and understand them? Which sentence best explains the effect of composing a paragraph made up entirely of rhetorical questions? a. It gets the reader thinking about the central idea of the article. b. It interests the reader by bringing up the topic of social interaction. c. It emphasizes the unanswerable nature of these issues. d. It leaves the reader with a lasting and very important thought.
A
Select the complex sentence. a. Edgar Allan Poe's stories, while they delight the imagination, also challenge one's intelligence. b. Still, most young people like his tales of horror, and some stories have been made into popular movies. c. Have you seen the movie House of Usher or another film called The Haunted Palace? d. Poe's writing style is considered dense and challenging by many of today's readers.
A
She said, "We can't bar the door against him. That would be cruel." The father said, "What? No one has barred any door against anyone." "Put yourself in his place," the mother said. "He told me he didn't want to come inside," the father said. "Oh—isn't that just like you!" the mother said in exasperation. Which of the following statements best describes what the dialogue reveals about the characters in this passage? a. The dialogue shows that the mother and the father see things from different perspectives and do not understand each other well. b. The dialogue shows that the father is afraid of the mother's unpredictable temper. c. The dialogue shows that the father does not understand the significance of the situation whereas the mother does. d. The dialogue shows that the mother is sympathetic to strangers whereas the father is cold.
A
The word splendor contains the Latin root -splend-. Choose the situation that most clearly illustrates the meaning of splendor. Base your answer on your knowledge of the root -splend-. a. The tour took them to a magnificent, inspiring view of the Grand Canyon. b. The children were bored with the movie, so they went outside to play soccer. c. The drama lasted three hours, by which time we were yawning and ready to go home. d. Everyone lost interest in the house when they saw how dilapidated and dirty it was.
A
Which is the most accurate description of the ending of the "The Fall of the House of Usher"? a. During a storm, the barely perceptible fissure in the façade of the house widens until the house collapses. b. During a storm, the waters of the tarn surrounding the house rise until the house is submerged. c. During a storm, Roderick Usher madly rushes about striking at the house until he causes its collapse. d. During a storm, Roderick and Madeline Usher struggle so madly that they cause the collapse of the house.
A
Part A After reading "Revenge of the Geeks," how would you describe the author's attitude toward the environment in today's schools? a. She thinks that outsiders often endure terrible social situations in school. b. She hopes that schools can be important partners in the fight against bullying. c. She thinks that the lack of "geek" resources and programs in schools is annoying. d. She is horrified that many schools do nothing when popular students exclude outsiders. Part B Which quotation from "Revenge of the Geeks" best supports the inference stated in the answer to Part A? a. [L]et's also stop to consider the outcasts, students for whom finishing high school feels like liberation from a state-imposed sentence. b. J. K. Rowling, author of the bestselling "Harry Potter" series, has described herself as a bullied child "who lived mostly in books and daydreams." c. In the rabidly conformist school environment, the qualities that make people different make them targets. d. The worst aspect of the treatment of student outsiders . . . isn't even the demise of attitudes and programs that are important for fostering creativity and independence.
A A
15. Which of these abstract ideas are the most likely symbolic meanings of the little lamp in "The Doll's House"? Choose two options. a. human kindness b. passionate anger c. social acceptance d. economic hardship e. excessive ambition
A C
Part A In "The Fall of the House of Usher," which of the following is one of Roderick Usher's disturbing ideas? [CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS A THROUGH D.] Part B Which excerpt from the story best supports the answer to Part A? [CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS E THROUGH H.] a. (Part A) Usher believes that his house has awareness, like a living thing. b. (Part A) Usher believes that his house will fall apart, sliding into the tarn. c. (Part A) Usher believes that his sister will die, even though she is healthy. d. (Part A) Usher believes that the narrator has held a grudge, ever since boyhood. e. (Part B) Although, as boys, we had been even intimate associates, yet I really knew little of my friend. His reserve had been always excessive and habitual. f. (Part B) The belief, however, was connected ... with the gray stones of the home of his forefathers. The conditions of the sentience had been here, he imagined, fulfilled in the method of collocation of these stones.... g. (Part B) "I shall perish:" said [Usher], "I must perish in this deplorable folly. Thus, thus, and not otherwise, shall I be lost. I dread the events of the future, not in themselves, but in their results." h. (Part B) [O]ne evening, having informed me abruptly that the lady Madeline was no more, [Usher] stated his intention of preserving her corpse for a fortnight....
A F
Part A Which of the following statements most accurately describes a way in which "Where is Here?" differs from a traditional Gothic story? [CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS A THROUGH D.]Part B Which of the following excerpts from "Where Is Here?" best supports the answer to Part A? [CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS E THROUGH H.] a. (Part A) Instead of building to a violent ending, the author conveys tension by showing characters' efforts to keep their emotions in check. b. (Part A) Instead of referring to supernatural terrors, the author conveys tension by hinting that the stranger is likely to turn to violence. c. (Part A) Instead of providing an ending that leaves unanswered questions, the author explains the mystery of the story fully. d. (Part A) Instead of creating effects of uncertainty and fear, the author works to create an effect of sadness and tragedy. e. (Part B) Without a further word she went to the back door and called out for the stranger to come inside, if he wanted, when he had finished looking around outside. f. (Part B) But the perfect word eluded [the stranger]. As he spoke his eyes darted about the kitchen almost like eyes out of control. He stood in an odd stiff posture, hands gripping the lapels of his suit.... g. (Part B) He drew his fingers slowly along the windowsill; around the frame; rapped the glass ... but it was night, and nothing but his reflection bobbed in the glass, ghostly and insubstantial. h. (Part B) He watched the stranger walk away—out to the sidewalk, out to the street, disappearing in the darkness.
A F
Part A Read the following excerpt from "The Fall of the House of Usher. "The impetuous fury of the entering gust nearly lifted us from our feet. It was, indeed, a tempestuous yet sternly beautiful night, and one wildly singular in its terror and its beauty.... —yet we had no glimpse of the moon or stars, ... But the under surfaces of the huge masses of agitated vapor, as well as all terrestrial objects immediately around us, were glowing in the unnatural light of a faintly luminous and distinctly visible gaseous exhalation which hung about and enshrouded the mansion. In what way is this excerpt most clearly characteristic of Gothic literature? [CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS A THROUGH D.]Part B Which is most clearly the intended effect of the excerpt in Part A? [CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS E THROUGH H.] a. (Part A) The description is dramatic. The setting described is eerie. b. (Part A) The description is detailed. The setting described is stormy. c. (Part A) The description is dramatic. The setting described has wild beauty. d. (Part A) The description is detailed. The setting described is filled with light. e. (Part B) to help readers understand why a disaster will soon occur f. (Part B) to help readers sympathize with a character who is going mad g. (Part B) to create a mood of terror h. (Part B) to create a mood of enthusiasm
A G
According to "Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century," what did the "philosophers of dialogue" hope would result from the "dialogue" they promoted? a. new forms of interpersonal communication b. more compassionate human relationships c. an end to multiculturalism d. greater pride in our individuality
B
According to "Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century," what is the main way that the world of the future will differ from the world of the past and present? a. People will demand more freedom. b. People will encounter a new type of Other. c. Differences between people will disappear. d. There will be more chaos.
B
After the stranger in "Where Is Here?" leaves the house, the following dialogue takes place between the father and the mother: "I wasn't the one who opened the door to that man in the first place," the mother said ... [T]he father violently jerked his arm up and thrust her away. "Shut up. We'll forget it," he said. "But—""We'll forget it. "Which of the following statements best describes what this dialogue reveals about the father? a. The dialogue shows that he wants to make sure his wife and family will no longer be troubled about the stranger's visit. b. The dialogue shows that he would rather deny than understand the unsettling feelings caused by the stranger's visit. c. The dialogue shows that he does not care about his wife or her feelings. d. The dialogue shows that he has difficulty expressing his affection for his wife and family.
B
At the beginning of "The Necklace," what is the most likely conclusion that readers can draw about Madame Loisel's character, based on the life she desires? a. She enjoys working. b. She cares primarily about material things. c. She cares primarily about her husband. d. She has simple needs.
B
First Read: Concept Vocabulary Identify the choice that best answers the question. Which of the following people would be most likely to act listlessly? Base your answer on the meaning of listlessly. a. people who are unsure of their sense of balance b. people who are overworked and exhausted c. people who are reporting a shocking event d. people who are committing a serious crime
B
Which point does the author of "Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century" use as the basis for the conclusion of his article? a. It is difficult for the members of any culture to understand a different culture. b. When encountering the new Other, we must try to recognize the bonds that exist among all people. c. The borders that define nations often also serve as the boundaries of varying cultures. d. As people freed themselves from colonization, they began to discover self-identity and pride.
B
Which sentence demonstrates the correct use of the semicolon? a. So many people came; that the line stretched all the way around the block. b. The performance was a wonderful success; people laughed long and loudly. c. Someone called for food a few minutes later, Bob; offered to pick it up. d. Our group danced until late in the night; and enjoyed themselves completely.
B
Which statement best summarizes one of the main messages of "The Necklace"? a. People should always strive to build better lives for themselves, regardless of the sacrifices they must make. b. People should learn to be happy with what they have rather than longing for things beyond their reach c. People should never lend anything to friends who cannot be counted on to return them. d. People should beware of friends who are not honest and try to take advantage of them.
B
Whom does the author of "Revenge of the Geeks" cite to lend credibility to her argument that cliquish behavior may result in bigotry? a. educators b. psychologists c. hip-hop artists d. popular students
B
A gathering of quail is called a bevy. A gathering of Indians is called a tribe. When quails speak, they call it a song. When Indians sing, the air is heavy with grief. When quails grieve, they lie down next to their dead. When Indians die, the quail speaks. What do the details in this passage suggest are the reasons that the speaker associates quails with Indians? Choose two options. a. Both sing tuneless songs. b. Both live together in groups. c. Both grieve when comrades die. d. Both wear feathered headdresses. e. Both have very small populations. f. Both engage in long conversations.
B C
Part A In "The Doll's House," what do the Burnell children—especially Isabel Burnell—gain by having the doll's house? a. a new attitude toward life b. even more status than before c. additional, improved playtime d. a better understanding of beauty Part B Which of these sentences from "The Doll's House" best supports the answer to Part A? a. Isabel was bossy, but she was always right, and Lottie and Kezia knew too well the powers that went with being eldest. b. For it had been arranged that while the doll's house stood in the courtyard they might ask girls at school, two at a time, to come and look. c. The girls of her [Isabel's] class nearly fought to put their arms round her, to walk away with her, to beam flatteringly, to be her special friend. d. While always, as near as they could get, sat the Kelveys, our Else holding on to Lil, listening too, while they chewed their jam sandwiches out of a newspaper soaked with large red blobs.
B C
Part A What does "The Doll's House" suggest about the role of adults in the snobbery in which children sometimes engage? a. Adults try to stop such behavior. b. Adults encourage such behavior. c. Adults mostly ignore such behavior. d. Adults misunderstand such behavior. Part B Which of these sentences from "The Doll's House" best supports the answer to Part A? a. For, really, the smell of paint coming from that doll's house ("Sweet of old Mrs. Hay, of course; most sweet and generous!")—but the smell of paint was quite enough to make anyone seriously ill, in Aunt Beryl's opinion. b. For it had been arranged that while the doll's house stood in the courtyard they might ask the girls at school, two at a time, to come and look. c. Even the teacher had a special voice for them [the Kelveys], and a special smile for the other children when Lil Kelvey came up to her desk with a bunch of dreadfully common-looking flowers. d. A letter had come from Willie Brent, a terrifying, threatening letter, saying if she did not meet him that evening in Pulman's Bush, he'd come to the front door and ask the reason why!
B C
Part A What is one likely meaning of the symbol of the doll's house in "The Doll's House"? a. creativity b. social status c. foolish ideas d. unpleasantness Part B Which of these sentences from "The Doll's House" best supports the answer to Part A? a. For, really, the smell of paint coming from that doll's house ("Sweet of old Mrs. Hay, of course; most sweet and generous!")—but the smell of paint was quite enough to make anyone seriously ill, in Aunt Beryl's opinion. b. There stood the doll's house, a dark, oily, spinach green, picked out with bright yellow. Its two solid little chimneys, glued on to the roof, were painted red and white, and the door, gleaming with yellow varnish, was like a little slab of toffee. c. The Burnell children could hardly walk to school fast enough the next morning. They burned to tell everybody, to describe, to—well—to boast about their doll's house before the school bell rang. d. "The lamp's best of all," cried Kezia. She thought Isabel wasn't making half enough of the little lamp.
B C
Part A How does Else most likely feel when she says, "I seen the little lamp" at the very end of "The Doll's House"? a. frightened by Aunt Beryl's treatment of her b. pleased by the lamp and by Kezia's kindness c. jealous of the Burnells for owning a doll's house d. sad that her chance to see the doll's house was interrupted Part B Which quotation from "The Doll's House" best supports the answer to Part A? a. At the back door stood Aunt Beryl, staring as if she couldn't believe what she saw. b. Burning with shame, shrinking together, Lil huddling along like her mother, our Else dazed, somehow they crossed the big courtyard. c. When the Kelveys were well out of sight of the Burnells', they sat down to rest on a big red drainpipe by the side of the road. Lil's cheeks were still burning; ... d. But now she [Else] had forgotten the cross lady. She put out a finger and stroked her sister's quill; she smiled her rare smile.
B D
According to "Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century," what is the main question that people face when they encounter unfamiliar people? a. What are the possible benefits of interacting with people who are unknown to us? b. Do we have any responsibilities toward people we don't know? c. How should we react when we meet people who are different from us? d. Should we blend our culture with others or remain uniquely what we are?
C
Part A With which of the following statements would the author of "Revenge of the Geeks" most likely agree? a. Cultivating "geek" traits in high school is the best way to prepare for a successful adulthood. b. Schools should encourage students to develop the qualities that make them stand apart from other students. c. To ensure a brighter future for themselves, popular students should take part in "geek" activities such as gaming or the arts. d. To make the "outcast aesthetic" more popular, students should listen to nerdcore hip-hop artists who wear "geek chic" clothing. Part B Which quotation from "Revenge of the Geeks" most clearly supports the answer to Part A? a. In seven years of reporting from American middle and high schools, I've seen repeatedly that the differences that cause a student to be excluded in high school are often the same traits or skills that will serve him or her well after graduation. b. Skaters, punks and others who pursue their arts with fervor benefit from the creativity they've honed. Gamers have learned both problem-solving skills and the ability to collaborate through collective intelligence. c. In the adult world, being out is in. "Geek chic" and "nerd merch" are on the rise. Nerdcore hip-hop artists have penetrated mainstream consciousness. d. The education landscape would be so much more bearable if students could understand [that those who don't follow the in-crowd's lead aren't less socially successful]. And if schools found better ways to nurture kids who reject the in-crowd image.
B D
In "The Doll's House," which words best describe Kezia's impression of the lamp in the doll's house? Choose three options. a. gigantic b. realistic c. glaring d. shabby e. perfect f. homey
B E F
Part A Which technique of literary nonfiction is most clearly used in this sentence from "Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century"? (CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS A THROUGH D.)This was an incredibly important movement that rescued and elevated the human being, a movement that rescued and elevated the Other, with whom, as Levinas suggested, one must not only stand face to face and conduct a dialogue, but for whom one must "take responsibility. "Part B What purpose is served by the technique identified by the answer to Part A? (CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS E THROUGH H.) a. (Part A) use of summary b. (Part A) use of repetition c. (Part A) use of a surprising fact d. (Part A) use of a challenge to the reader e. (Part B) It leaves the reader with a lasting thought. f. (Part B) It impresses the reader with a stunning quotation. g. (Part B) It helps the reader remember a point in the discussion h. (Part B) It pulls together the most important ideas from throughout the article.
B G
Part A In "The Necklace," what is the main effect of irony on the reader? (CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS A THROUGH D.)Part B Which excerpt from "The Necklace" is an example of irony that has the effect identified in Part A? (CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS E THROUGH H.) a. (Part A) It causes the reader to feel intense dislike for people like Madame Loisel. b. (Part A) It causes the reader to feel sympathy for the harsh life Madame Loisel unnecessarily led. c. (Part A) It evokes feelings of superiority in the reader because the reader knows he or she would never act so foolishly. d. (Part A) It makes the reader realize that people who suffer and live miserable lives have largely brought it on themselves. e. (Part B) "You must write to your friend," he said, "and tell her that you've broken the clasp of the necklace and that you're getting it mended. That'll give us time to decide what to do." f. (Part B) The next day they took the case in which it had been kept and went to the jeweler whose name appeared inside it. He looked through his ledgers: "I didn't sell this necklace, madame. I only supplied the case." g. (Part B) They asked the jeweler to hold it for them for three days, and they stipulated that he should take it back for 34,000 francs if the other necklace was found before the end of February. h. (Part B) Madame Forestier, profoundly moved, took Mathilde's hands in her own. "Oh, my poor, poor Mathilde! Mine was false. It was worth five hundred francs at the most!"
B H
Part A Which of the following is a defining element of Gothic literature that is clearly illustrated by "The Fall of the House of Usher"? [CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS A THROUGH D.]Part B Which excerpt from "The Fall of the House of Usher" best supports the answer to Part A? [CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS E THROUGH H.] a. (Part A) believable characters and settings b. (Part A) weird or otherworldly occurrences c. (Part A) a narrator who is also a character in the story d. (Part A) a contrast between rational and irrational characters e. (Part B) Nevertheless, in this mansion of gloom I now proposed to myself a sojourn of some weeks. Its proprietor, Roderick Usher, had been one of my boon companions in boyhood; but many years had elapsed since our last meeting. f. (Part B) The writer spoke of acute bodily illness—of a mental disorder which oppressed him—and of an earnest desire to see me, as his best, and indeed his only personal friend, with a view of attempting ... some alleviation of his malady. g. (Part B) And thus, as a closer and still closer intimacy admitted me more unreservedly into the recesses of his spirit, the more bitterly did I perceive the futility of all attempts at cheering a mind from which darkness, as if an inherent positive quality, poured forth upon all objects of the moral and physical universe, in one unceasing radiation of gloom. h. (Part B) [B]ut then without those doors there did stand the lofty and enshrouded figure of the lady Madeline of Usher. There was blood upon her white robes, and the evidence of some bitter struggle upon every portion of her emaciated frame.... then, with a low moaning cry, fell heavily inward upon the person of her brother, and in her violent and now final death agonies, bore him to the floor a corpse, and a victim to the terrors he had anticipated.
B H
"Where Is Here?" focuses mostly on which of the following? a. the precise, mathematical design of the universe b. the dependable beauty of nature c. the strong influence of the irrational on human behavior d. the stability of marital relationships
C
bigotry
intolerance toward those who hold different opinions from oneself.
Students would have an easier time at school if school officials appreciated and celebrated differences. Grownups would do better at work if bosses respected dissimilarities. The first step is to respect that everyone has something to offer. How could the underlined sentence be changed to increase parallelism? Choose the revision that best enhances the parallel structure while keeping the same basic meaning. a. Grownups would do better work having bosses who respect dissimilarities. b. Grownups who work would do better at it if bosses understood more about differences. c. Grownups would have an easier time at work if bosses appreciated and celebrated differences. d. Grownups would be having an easier time at work if they had bosses who appreciated dissimilarities.
C
What is the most likely meaning of refinement as it is used in this sentence? Use context clues to help you. His refinement was obvious when he stood to open the door and help the elderly woman find her seat in the dining room. a. wisdom and judgment b. education and knowledge c. politeness and good manners d. agility and physical strength
C
Which of the following is an aspect of the ending of "Where Is Here?" that most clearly shows that it is a modern Gothic story? a. It shows a new tension between the mother and the father. b. It resolves some of the tension in the story by indicating that the stranger has left, never to return. c. It leaves readers with questions about who the stranger was and whether the family has been changed. d. It leaves readers terrified that the stranger may return to take vengeance on the father.
C
Which of the following is the best definition of "the Other," as presented in "Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century"? a. people who are viewed as being subhuman b. people who are outside a family group c. people who are unfamiliar to a person or group d. people who endanger another group
C
Which of the following is the most accurate description of what happens to Madeleine Usher in "The Fall of the House of Usher"? a. She pretends to die, is taken for dead and is buried, but then emerges from her crypt to destroy the house. b. She dies, is buried by her brother, but then returns to life to terrorize her brother and the narrator. c. She appears to die, is mistakenly entombed, but then revives and forces her way to freedom before dying. d. She nearly dies, recovers through a doctor's help, but then is thrown into an underground cell by her brother.
C
Which of the following is the most likely reason that Kafka in "The Metamorphosis" has Gregor turn into an insect rather than some other animal? a. to show that Gregor has low self-esteem b. to frighten readers into a feeling of hatred for Gregor c. to make Gregor repulsive to those around him d. to reveal Gregor's evil nature
C
Which of these sentences best expresses the theme to which the symbol of the doll's house points in "The Doll's House"? a. Maturity means putting away childish things and behaving as the adults around you behave. b. Gifts that seem beautiful or wonderful when first received sometimes turn out to be quite unpleasant. c. Those who enjoy the privileges of upperclass life should share their joys with those who are less fortunate. d. No doll's house, painting, short story, or other work of human creation can ever capture the world realistically.
C
Which pair of phrases in this sentence from "Revenge of the Geeks" is an example of parallelism? It's hard to know when you're in high school that "the smart thing" is likely to translate into later success, or that "the girl thing" is bound to improve. a. hard to know; bound to improve b. you're in high school; into later success c. "the smart thing"; "the girl thing" d. later success; bound to improve
C
Part A What main criticism does "The Doll's House" offer about the class system that prevailed in the place and time of its setting? a. The class system created a sense of responsibility in the upper class. b. The class system brought physical hardship to the lower classes. c. The class system could be cruel to the lower classes. d. The class system was governed mainly by women. Part B Which of these sentences from "The Doll's House" best supports the answer to Part A? a. They walked past the Kelveys with their heads in the air, and as they set the fashion in all matters of behavior, the Kelveys where shunned by everybody. b. They were the daughters of a spry, hard-working little washerwoman, who went about from house to house by the day. c. The truth was they were dressed in "bits" given to her [Mrs. Kelvey] by the people for whom she worked. d. She [Else] was a tiny wishbone of a child, with cropped hair and enormous solemn eyes—a little white owl.
C A
Part A According to "Revenge of the Geeks," why is it important for adults to let high school students know that it can be good to be different? a. Students must be warned that trying to fit in will cause them to do poorly in school. b. Students may feel unsupported and need encouragement to stand up to bullies who target them for being outsiders. c. Students lack the life experience to understand that the qualities that make them outsiders now can benefit them later in life. d. Students need to understand that they will become as successful as Taylor Swift if they just learn to embrace their outsider status. Part B Which quotation from "Revenge of the Geeks" best supports the answer to Part A? a. Examples abound: Taylor Swift's classmates left the lunch table as soon as she sat down because they disdained her taste for country music. Last year, the Grammy winner was the nation's top-selling recording artist. b. J. K. Rowling, author of the bestselling "Harry Potter" series, has described herself as a bullied child. ... It's no wonder she went on to write books populated with kids she describes as "outcasts and comfortable with being so." c. It's hard to know when you're in high school that "the smart thing" is likely to translate into later success, or that "the girl thing" is bound to improve. That's why it's up to adults to convey constantly to teenagers that the characteristics that marginalize them can pay off after graduation. d. Students who are popular and involved in aggression are less likely to do well in school.
C C
Part A According to the information in "Revenge of the Geeks," how can being part of a popular group in high school later lead students to hold prejudiced beliefs? a. Students belonging to a popular group often talk badly about others and can be hostile, which lowers their ability to empathize. b. Students belonging to a popular group often behave inappropriately, which indicates that they have bad judgment. c. Students belonging to a popular group learn to reject others who are not like them. d. Students belonging to a popular group tend to lack creativity. Part B Which quotation from "Revenge of the Geeks" best supports the answer to Part A? a. Research shows that [popular students] are more likely than outsiders to conform, which can also mean they're less likely to innovate. b. [Popular students] are more likely to be both targets and instigators of aggression—whether physical or relational, which includes rumors, gossip and backstabbing. c. [Popular students] are more likely to drink and engage in other risky behaviors. d. Psychologists point out that high-status cliques teach the exclusionary behavior that may be the foundation for eventual racism, anti-Semitism, sexism and other forms of bigotry.
C D
In "Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century," what does the author recommend when dealing with the Other in the changing world that lies ahead? Choose two options. a. being cautious in all interactions b. trading our uniqueness for the benefits of globalization c. trying to communicate with those who are different from ourselves d. fighting courageously in defense of our values e. treating those we don't know with kindness f. blending our culture with other cultures
C E
Part A According to "Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century," what is one main difference between the new Other that is emerging and the Other of the past? (CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS A THROUGH D.)Part B Which quotation from "Encountering the Other: The Challenge for the 21st Century" best supports the answer to Part A? (CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS E THROUGH H.) a. (Part A) The new Other is homogeneous; the old Other was diverse. b. (Part A) The new Other is made up of enslaved peoples; the old Other fought for freedom. c. (Part A) The new Other is both self-assertive and a hybrid; the old Other was often exploited and isolated. d. (Part A) The new Other is committed to getting along with others; the old Other was warlike and hostile. e. (Part B) We say today that the world has become multiethnic and multicultural not because there are more of these [hybrid] communities and cultures than before, but rather because they are speaking out more loudly, with increasing self-sufficiency and forcefulness.... f. (Part B) Gradually, ... people are beginning to rediscover their own pasts, myths and legends, their roots, their feelings of identity and, of course, the pride that flows from this. g. (Part B) We may be moving toward a world so entirely new and changed that our previous historical experience will prove to be insufficient to grasp and move around in it. In any case, the world that we are entering is the Planet of Great Opportunities. h. (Part B) This is a world that potentially has a lot to offer, but that also demands a lot, and in which taking easy shortcuts is often the road to nowhere.
C E
Which of the following events from "The Necklace" best illustrates situational irony? Choose two options. a. Madame Loisel is a great success at the party, even though the event is meant to honor her husband's boss. b. In order to please his wife, Monsieur Loisel agrees to pay more than the couple can afford for a dress. c. By trying to look rich enough to own a diamond necklace, Madame Loisel winds up poorer than she was before. d. The Loisels are able to find a new necklace that looks exactly like the other one. e. Madame Loisel, who dislikes hard work, must sacrifice her best years working to replace the lost necklace.
C E
Part A Which of the following best describes the father's state of mind when the stranger in "Where Is Here?" wanders around outside the house? [CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS A THROUGH D.]Part B Which of the following excerpts from "Where Is Here?" best supports the answer to Part A? [CHOOSE FROM ANSWERS E THROUGH H.] a. (Part A) The father is delighted to show the property off to the stranger and regrets not inviting him inside. b. (Part A) The father is touched by the stranger's desire to see the old home and eager to make him welcome. c. (Part A) The father is curious about what the stranger is doing but respects the stranger's desire to revisit his memories. d. (Part A) The father is deeply frightened and angered by the stranger's presence but cannot think of a way to get rid of him. e. (Part B) "Where is he now?" the mother asked. "He just went into the garage," the father said. f. (Part B) "He wouldn't want anyone with him," the father said. He moved stealthily to another window, peering through the curtains. g. (Part B) "Doing what?" the mother asked. "Not doing anything, just walking," the father said. "He seems to have a slight limp." h. (Part B) The father had moved to another window and stood quietly watching.... "Is it possible he remembers those swings from his childhood?"
C F
At the end of "Where Is Here?," what effect has the stranger's visit had on the family? a. It has left the father and mother grateful and appreciative of their lives. b. It has left the children excited and curious about math. c. It has left the family sad and tired. d. It has left the father and mother quarrelsome and confused.
D
If a storm were to annihilate a building, which of the following would most likely be the result? a. The building would be removed from its foundation. b. The building would have part of its roof torn off. c. The building would have damage but would remain intact. d. The building would be reduced to small fragments.
D
In "Sonnet, With Bird," what event has caused the speaker great sorrow? a. moving off the Indian reservation b. missing his wife while staying in London c. a conversation with his mother about a childhood friend d. the death of the childhood friend he once visited with in London
D
In "The Fall of the House of Usher," what does Usher say is his biggest fear? a. being accidentally buried alive b. the death of his sister Madeline c. the collapse of his family's house d. being frightened to death
D
In "The Necklace," what does Monsieur Loisel's treatment of his wife most clearly reveal about his character? a. He has grown tired of his wife's complaints. b. He cares far too much about material things. c. He enjoys accompanying his wife to fancy receptions. d. He cares deeply about his wife's happiness.
D
In the living room he [the father] saw that the lights were flickering as if on the brink of going out; the patterned wallpaper seemed drained of color; a shadow lay upon it shaped like a bulbous cloud or growth. Which of the following best explains what is taking place in this passage? a. The father is beginning to understand the stranger's difficult childhood. b. The father is recalling how the living room has always appeared. c. The father is changing his opinion about the stranger. d. The father is detecting an otherworldly, unreal, and frightening presence.
D
In this paragraph from "The Doll's House," whose impression of the doll's house is conveyed? But perfect, perfect little house! Who could possibly mind the smell? It was part of the joy, part of the newness. a. Aunt Beryl's b. Else Kelvey's c. Mrs. Burnell's d. the Burnell girls'
D
Select the answer choice in which a dependent clause is underlined. a. Edgar Allan Poe is considered to be the inventor of the detective story. b. He earned his living as a writer, but he was in financial difficulties for most of his short life. c. Writers all over the world have imitated his tales of mystery and supernatural events. d. Though the cause of Poe's death is unknown, many believe that poor health and habits were probably the main factors.
D
Which of the following gives the adverb form of clean along with its correct definition? a. cleaned; "made clean" b. cleaner; "more clean" c. cleanliness; "the state or quality of being clean" d. cleanly; "in a clean manner"
D
Which of the following sentences most accurately describes Grete's attitude toward her brother, Gregor, in "The Metamorphosis"? a. She feels genuine affection for him and never gives up on him, regardless of his bad behavior. b. She is horrified by the change in him and develops a hatred for him because of his ugliness. c. She cares for him at first just to please her mother and father, but her dislike for him grows each day. d. She is sympathetic and caring at first, but as her life gets more difficult, she blames him for the family's problems.
D
Which of the following statements shows most clearly that "The Metamorphosis" is an example of absurdist literature? a. Gregor mostly seems to enjoy his transformation. b. The other characters do not act like ordinary human beings. c. The transformation of Gregor into a giant insect is fully explained. d. Gregor's transformation leads to his complete alienation from other people.
D
Part A What does "The Doll's House" suggest about the way that most people feel when they demean or insult other people? a. They feel guilty and embarrassed. b. They feel upset with themselves. c. They feel completely indifferent. d. They feel pleased and superior. Part B Which of these sentences from "The Doll's House" best supports the answer to Part A? a. And the only two who stayed outside the ring were the two who were always outside, the little Kelveys. b. She [Else] went through life holding on to Lil, with a piece of Lil's skirt screwed up in her hand. c. But when the others knew they were all to have a chance, they couldn't be nice enough to Isabel. d. But now that she [Aunt Beryl] had frightened those little rats of Kelveys and given Kezia a good scolding, her heart felt lighter.
D D
How does the example of Taylor Swift add relevance to the author's argument in "Revenge of the Geeks"? Choose two options. a. by showing that musicians are people, too b. by implying that any outcast could win a major award c. by demonstrating that country music may be unpopular d. by using a current reference that most readers would know e. by connecting a recognizable person to the author's claim
D E
