On your own paper, answer FIVE (5) of the following questions. Be sure to include a quotation or specific detail from the book, with page number, in your answer.
EXAMPLE: What makes the wall of light so confusing to White Fang?
The white wall is different from the other walls in several ways. His mother and father seem to be able to disappear through it, and then reappear, but when White Fang tries to go through the other walls, he hurts his nose each time (pg.#). It is also much brighter than the other walls. Perhaps most importantly, his mother prevents him physically from going through the white wall, by knocking him down and, later, snapping at him when he tries to get close to it (pg. #).
1. What point is the author trying to make by discussing the childhood of Jim Hall?
2. Why is Beauty Smith’s name ironic?
3. How are images in the story used to create mood?
4. Why does White Fang keep returning to Grey Beaver, even when he does not have to?
5. Explain the Law of Property.
6. How do Collie’s instincts conflict regarding White Fang?
7. What elements of Jack London’s personal life appear in the novel?
Note to Teacher: You will want to go over the use of literary evidence in writing about fiction. You will also want to have discussed all of these concepts with students during your treatment of the novel in class -- especially with a regular-level class of students. You may want to include a lesson on embedding quotations within analytical writing, particularly with Pre-AP/honors students. When you evaluate this test, be sure to give priority to the ways in which students use literary evidence to support their opinions. Proper support is more important than whether or not the student shares your opinion about one of these questions.
To better understand Jack London's works, check out this brief explanation of Naturalism.