"Examination Day" Practice

PART A: Which statement best expresses a theme of the short story?

• People have higher expectations for children as they grow up.

• The government has been known to violate people’s rights.

• High intelligence can be viewed as a dangerous thing.

• It’s better to downplay your own intelligence.

PART B: Which detail from the text best supports the answer to Part A?

• “‘Now, it’s nothing to worry about. Thousands of children take this test everyday. The Government wants to know how smart you are, Dickie. That’s all there is to it.’” (Paragraph 21)

• “They were at breakfast table, and the boy looked up from his plate curiously.He was an alert-eyed youngster with flat blond hair and a quick, nervous manner.” (Paragraph 3)

• “‘Now just relax, Richard. You’ll be asked some questions, and you think them over carefully. Then give your answers into the microphone. The machine will take care of the rest.’” (Paragraph 44)

• “‘We regret to inform you that his intelligence quotient is above the Government regulation, according to Rule 84 Section 5 of the New Code.’” (Paragraph 56)

What do the questions Dickie asks his father between paragraphs 4-17 reveal about Dickie’s character?

• They show how curious Dickie is about how the world works.

• They stress that Dickie isn’t as intelligent as he claims.

• They suggest that Dickie doesn’t usually get along with his father.

• They show how much Dickie relies on his father for simple ideas.

How does knowledge of the exam affect Dickie’s mom and dad?

• Dickie’s mom and dad express doubt that their son is ready for the exam.

• Dickie’s mom and dad stress about preparing their son for the exam.

• Dickie’s mom is not bothered by the exam, while Dickie’s dad is upset about it.

• Dickie’s mom becomes anxious and sad, while Dickie’s dad becomes easily irritated.

How old was Dickie turning?

• 20

• 9

• 12

• 16

What genre was "Examination Day"?

• Romance

• Science Fiction

• Historical Fiction

• Non-fiction

Who wrote "Examination Day"?

• Henry Slesar

• J.K. Rowling

• William Shakespeare

• Tom Hanks

What is the author best known for including in his stories?

• use of female lead characters

• use of bright and cheerful humor

• use of will they won't they relationships

• use of irony and unexpected endings