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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. While Tycho and his mother are talking in the kitchen, what is his mother doing?

2. When Angela sees Dido after the accident, she is described as overcome with emotion. Why?

3. What is the significance of the slogan "The Ionions Rule!" in Chapter 12?

4. As Tycho hangs up the phone after the late night call while his family is at the party, what startles him?

5. When Angela and Tycho arrive at the scene of the car accident, who asks for their help?

Short Essay Questions

1. Chapter 9 is a pivotal one, in that Angela finally has a chance to meet with Roland. Describe Roland's reaction to the meeting.

2. Angela is very upset by what Roland tells her in his office, and she decides to phone Dido and confront her. What does she tell Dido on the phone?

3. Although Mrs. Potter is very traditional, it is also clear that she tries to be supportive of Tycho. With reference to Chapter 10, show how she does this.

4. What do Angela and Tycho find when they hurry to the scene of the accident?

5. What does Angela say and do that illustrates that she has changed her mind about Tycho and wants to change the nature of their relationship?

6. How does Angela demonstrate that she is aware of Tycho's attraction to her?

7. Describe the conversation that takes place between Angela and her grandmother in Chapter 15?

8. When Tycho learns, during his conversation on the phone with Dido, that Angela has not returned home, what does his reaction tell us about his perception of Angela?

9. During his conversation with Dido on the phone, Dido says she called Tycho earlier and left a message. How does Tycho react to this news?

10. In Chapter 10, Mrs. Potter's character is seen in much more detail. Describe how she is portrayed.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Chapter 9, we get a more complete picture of Roland. In contrast to the falsehoods Dido has told Angela, Roland insists on telling Angela the truth. Is Roland being unnecessary cruel in this respect? What does this scene demonstrate about Roland and Dido as parents? As human beings?

Essay Topic 2

Describe the way in which Dido is introduced in the novel and what this initial view of her tells the reader about her nature, character, and personality. Use specific examples from the text to illustrate.

Essay Topic 3

Richard and Tycho are portrayed as two very different characters, but in some ways they are also quite similar. Discuss both their difference and their similarities (especially with respect to their attitudes toward Africa).

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