Task: You are to answer 2 of the following 6 questions. It is your choice which 2 questions you answer. You must answer each question with a minimum of 2 paragraphs. Use a separate sheet of paper to answer the following questions. Each question is worth 15pts.
Rubric for grading is as follows:
ü 6pts for accurate answers
ü 6pts for accurate length (2 paragraphs each)
ü 3pt for accurate structural organization (beginning, middle, & end)
Test Date: Friday, August 28th
Value of Assignment: 30pts
1. Using specific textual examples, describe the way Walter Dean Myers uses the word "monster" in this book. Be sure to consider how the author means it, and be sure to discuss to which character(s) this word applies. The main character refers to himself as a Monster. Do you agree with him or not? Explain in detail…
2. Life in prison is a big adjustment for Steve Harmon, and has a major impact on the way he feels about himself. Describe the details of prison life that most affect Steve, including specific examples from the text. You should include information on how prison changes Steve and/or does not change him? Explain in detail…
3. This novel features a family where there are two parents, yet somehow Steve Harmon still managed to get into trouble. Describe the roles Steve's parents play in his life, including before, during, and after prison. What characterizes his relationship with his parents? What responsibility do they have for him getting in trouble (if any) and what are the ways in which they tried to help him out of trouble? Elaborate on Steve’s conversation with his father in prison…
4. One major theme of this novel is teenage violence. Explain the role violence between teenagers and violence perpetrated by teenagers plays in the plot and characterization of this novel, and describe the ways in which Walter Dean Myers explores this theme. Be sure to indicate what you think Myers (the author) is trying to communicate to the reader about teenage violence, using specific textual examples. Do you think teenage violence is a problem? Why or why not? Explain in detail…
5. One interpretation of Steve's actions may lay the blame for his involvement with Mr. Nesbitt's murder on peer pressure and his desire to belong. Write about peer pressure and Steve's desire to fit in, explain the circumstances under which he allowed himself to be influenced, and the (bad) choices he made. You may, if you like, include whether or not you think that Steve's friends are more responsible for his actions that he himself is. Speak towards peer pressure you may have experienced as well…
6. One of the most significant players in Steve's life in this book is Kathy O'Brien. Write a character analysis of Kathy O'Brien, explaining who she is, how she behaves, and what her role in this novel is. Be sure to offer specific textual passages that show how this character is developed throughout the novel. You may want to include whether or not Kathy O'Brien's character undergoes any changes, and if so, detail them. Include her reaction to Steve at the end of the book…