"Ten Days a Madwoman" Comprehension Quiz

Why did Nellie Bly pretend to be mentally ill?

• To win a bet with her editor

• To investigate conditions in mental institutions

• To write an exciting story and become famous

• To prove women could be journalists

Where was Nellie Bly sent for her undercover investigation?

• Bellevue Hospital

• Blackwell's Island Asylum

• New York City Prison

• The Tombs

What were the terrible conditions Nellie discovered at the asylum?

• Patients were forced to work long hours

• Patients were given spoiled food

• Patients did not have proper medical attention

• All of the above

What happened to many of the women in the asylum who didn't speak English?

• They were given special treatment

• They were incorrectly labeled as insane

• They were sent back to their home countries

• They were given translators

How did Nellie Bly's reporting change things?

• The asylum was immediately shut down

• The government increased funding for mental health care

• Conditions at the asylum were improved

• All the asylum staff were fired

Explain how Nellie Bly prepared for her undercover investigation and how she convinced doctors she was mentally ill. Use at least two specific details from the book in your answer. (Remember to use R.A.C.E. for your answer. 4-5 complete sentences.)

Answer explanation