Little House on the Prairie

Multiple Choice and Long Answer questions create ideal opportunities for whole-text review, unit exam, or summative assessments.

Multiple Choice

1. How do Ma and Pa differ in their responses to life on the prairie?

A) Pa is adventurous, while Ma is conservative.

B) Pa is reckless, while Ma is careful.

C) Pa is pessimistic, while Ma is optimistic.

D) Pa is selfish, while Ma is selfless.

2. How does the character of Chief Soldat du Chêne provide insight into the relationships between settlers and Native Americans?

A) His wisdom challenges the stereotypical view of Native Americans.

B) His antagonism reflects the cultural clash between settlers and Native Americans.

C) His leadership illustrates the structured societies of Native American tribes.

D) His ignorance contributes to the misunderstanding between settlers and Native Americans.

3. What can you infer about the Ingallses’ attitudes toward Native Americans based on their interactions?

A) They see Native Americans as equals.

B) They see Native Americans as a threat to their safety.

C) They see Native Americans as part of nature’s cycle.

D) They see Native Americans as a superior race.

4. What is the symbolism of Pa’s fiddle?

A) The presence of music and art in frontier life

B) Entertainment and joy in the midst of hardship

C) The Ingallses’ connection to their European heritage

D) The clash of cultures between settlers and Native Americans

5. How does the author use weather to advance the plot and shape the characters’ experiences?

A) As a symbol of the family’s economic status

B) As a metaphor for the family’s struggles

C) As an antagonist that poses physical threats and challenges

D) As a reflection of the characters’ moods

6. How does the family’s relationship with the land reflect the wider societal attitudes of the time?

A) It reflects the Manifest Destiny idea of expansion and progress.

B) It represents a reverence for nature and its preservation.

C) It mirrors a belief in industrialization and modernization.

D) It shows an understanding of ecological balance and sustainability.

7. How do the Scotts differ from the Ingalls family?

A) They are more accepting of Native American culture.

B) They have a larger family with more children.

C) They are more adventurous.

D) They have more experience living on the prairie.

8. In what way does Laura struggle with the theme of Feminine Propriety and Filial Obedience?

A) She dislikes learning and resents Mary’s obedience.

B) She is curious and adventurous, leading to her disobedience.

C) She challenges her father’s authority by exploring dangerous areas.

D) She prefers to spend time with Mr. Edwards instead of her family.

9. How does the constant threat of danger, such as attacks from wolves or illnesses, contribute to the development of Laura’s character?

A) It makes her more cautious and fearful.

B) It leads to her indifference to danger.

C) It fosters resilience and bravery.

D) It triggers her desire to return to the Big Woods.

10. How does Jack serve as a symbol in the story?

A) He symbolizes the comforts and security of home.

B) He represents the unpredictable dangers of the wild.

C) He signifies the adaptability needed for survival.

D) He embodies the loyalty and unconditional love within the family.

Long Answer

Compose a response of 2-3 sentences, incorporating text details to support your response.

1. How does the character of Mr. Edwards contribute to the theme of community?

2. How do Mary and Laura differ in their reactions to the challenges of life on the prairie?