"Examination Day" Response & Reflection

What is the significance of Dickie Jordan’s twelfth birthday in the story?

• He receives a special gift from his parents.

• He is required to take a government-mandated intelligence test.

• He becomes eligible to vote in his society.

• He is allowed to attend school for the first time.

How do Dickie’s parents react when he asks questions about the test?

• They are excited to explain the process to him.

• They dismiss his questions and tell him not to worry.

• They encourage him to do his best on the test.

• They express pride and confidence in his intelligence.

Where does Dickie go to take the intelligence test?

• A school

• A hospital

• A government building

• His own home

What is revealed about the intelligence test by the end of the story?

• It determines which school children will attend.

• It measures intelligence for job placement.

• It results in the execution of children who score too high.

• It has no real purpose and is used to control citizens through fear.

How does the story end?

• Dickie’s parents celebrate his successful test.

• The government praises Dickie’s intelligence.

• Dickie’s parents receive news that their son has died.

• Dickie’s parents receive news that their son has died.

So, what's the deal? More specifically, why DO YOU THINK that the government in this story does NOT want to have citizens who are very smart? At least two sentences.

So, let's just think about the world we live in today. Is there such a thing as TOO SMART? Is there ever a time when it is BAD to be SMART in America? What do you think? At least two sentences.

This is really just a big, fancy IQ test. Do you think intelligence tests work? Why or why not? Write at least two sentences.

What do you think of the story? Love it? Hate it? Bored? (I love it, personally. Such a good twist!) Write at least two sentences justifying your opinion.