View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why does Mr. Smith refuse to follow the advice he is given by the Fire Chief?
(a) He cannot find the matches.
(b) It is raining.
(c) He already kissed his wife.
(d) He does not want tea.

2. Why does Mrs. Smith believe the Martins must have interesting stories to tell?
(a) Because the television is broken.
(b) Because they travel a great deal.
(c) They have had an adventurous day.
(d) Because they are entertainers.

3. Who is Mary?
(a) The Smith's daughter.
(b) The next door neighbor.
(c) The Martin's cook and maid.
(d) The Smith's cook and maid.

4. According to Mr. Martin, what should a person do if he catches a cold?
(a) Drink tea.
(b) Run in circles.
(c) Stand on his head.
(d) Get a colt.

5. What sound do the Smiths argue about?
(a) The caller on the telephone.
(b) The meaning of a ringing doorbell.
(c) The meaning of the gong.
(d) The sound of Mary's shoes.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to the Fire Chief, what is the reason for a ringing doorbell?

2. What nickname does Mary give herself?

3. What explanation does Mary give for leaving the house?

4. How does the Fire Chief act in response to Mrs. Smith's request?

5. According to Mr. Smith, what must one always think of?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the Fire Chief.

2. How do the characters react to Mary's poem, "The Fire"?

3. Describe the Mr. and Mrs. Martin's daughter.

4. Describe the Smith children.

5. How does Mr. Smith know the Fire Chief?

6. Describe Mrs. Smith.

7. What cycle exists in the play?

8. What is the purpose of the meaningless banter among the characters?

9. What ironic elements exist in the play?

10. What is the significance of the Martins beginning the play at the end of the drama?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,247 words (approx. 5 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample