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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. Who is afraid of airplanes?

2. What is the charge against the Chinese crewmen who refuse to sail?

3. How does Timothy order Phillip to get around on the raft?

4. After the incident with the Tern, what doesn't Phillip find exciting anymore?

5. What is the last name of Phillip's friend, Henrik?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Chapter 5, what does Phillip think he is glad he got to see before going blind?

2. In Chapter 6, what happens that causes Phillip to fall off the raft into the water?

3. When Phillip realizes he is blind, what story does Timothy tell him to attempt to soothe him?

4. In Chapter 2, why does the refinery shut down?

5. What does Timothy say the island he spots looks like?

6. Why is the S.S. Hato sailing to Panama before going to Miami?

7. What information does Timothy provide Phillip about himself when Phillip asks where Timothy comes from?

8. What activity do Phillip and Henrik often engage in when they visit the harbor?

9. At noon on Phillip's and Timothy's third day on the raft, what does Timothy do for Phillip as a plane passes overhead?

10. Why did Phillip's family move to Curacao?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Phillip's opinion of Timothy changes a great deal from the time he first meets Timothy to the end of the novel. Describe Phillip's initial opinion of Timothy and how it changes over time. Use specific examples from the book.

Essay Topic 2

There are two major settings in The Cay. What are they? How do each of these settings affect the storyline and Phillip? Would another setting, such as a modern-day setting, have been as effective in developing Phillip's character? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

What is the importance of Stew Cat in The Cay? What does he represent to Phillip? What does he represent to Timothy? How might Phillip's experience on the island been different had he not had Stew Cat?

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This section contains 648 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample