| Nine Days | Chapter 3: Jack

What is Jack's main occupation since returning home?

• Working on a station

• Working in his parents' shop

• Attending school

• Serving in the military

Answer explanation

Jack's main occupation since returning home is working in his parents' shop.

How does Jack’s mother try to adjust his behaviour when he is at home?

• By asking him to fix the furniture

• By waking him up early every morning

• By encouraging him to go to church

• By making him do household chores

Answer explanation

Jack's mother tries to adjust his behavior at home by making him do household chores.

Who is the girl Jack observes dancing in the backyard?

• Emily Stewart

• Connie Westaway

• Mrs. Stewart

• His sister

Answer explanation

Jack observes Connie Westaway dancing in the backyard, making her the girl he sees.

What does the shilling symbolise for Jack?

• Wealth and prosperity

• A connection to his past adventures and luck

• Family inheritance

• A burden he carries

Answer explanation

A connection to his past adventures and luck

What can be inferred about Jack’s feelings towards his parents based on his thoughts and actions?

• He feels a deep sense of gratitude and closeness.

• He feels disconnected and misunderstood by them.

• He is indifferent to their presence.

• He is resentful and angry towards them.

Answer explanation

Jack's feelings of being disconnected and misunderstood by his parents are inferred from his thoughts and actions.

How does Jack’s observation of Connie’s dance affect him?

• It makes him feel more connected to his urban environment.

• It reminds him of his own joy and freedom.

• It deepens his sense of isolation and longing for the bush.

• It makes him nostalgic for his childhood.

Answer explanation

Jack's observation of Connie's dance deepens his sense of isolation and longing for the bush, as it contrasts with his urban environment.

Do you think Jack’s decision to not go to church with his parents is justified? Why or why not?

Answer explanation

Yes, Jack's decision is justified because everyone has the right to choose their beliefs and practices, and forcing someone to attend church goes against personal autonomy.

Evaluate Jack’s relationship with Connie. What does it reveal about his character and his current state of mind?

Answer explanation

Jack's relationship with Connie reveals his caring nature and emotional vulnerability. It shows that he is seeking connection and support, indicating a sense of loneliness or longing in his current state of mind.

How does the story's setting influence the characters' moods and actions? Provide evidence from the text to support your answer.

Answer explanation

The story's setting influences the characters' moods and actions by creating a sense of isolation and despair, as seen when the characters are surrounded by desolate landscapes and harsh weather conditions. This environment leads to their feelings of hopelessness and drives their desperate actions to survive.