View a FREE sample

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

Short Answer Questions

1. In Chapter 7, what does Timothy say to Phillip to calm his fears?

2. In Chapter 11, what does Timothy make for Phillip to help him get around?

3. Why does Timothy think people have different colors of skin?

4. What shape does Timothy say the island is?

5. How many feet out on the reef is the fishing hole?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is a langosta?

2. What is the Devil's Mouth?

3. After the hut is blown away in the tempest, what does Timothy do to protect Phillip from the storm?

4. In Chapter 14, how do Timothy and Phillip know a tempest is on the way?

5. When Phillip tells Timothy that his mother doesn't like black people and asks Timothy why, what is Timothy's response?

6. How do Phillip and Timothy mark the passing of time on the island?

7. What are three steps Timothy and Phillip take to prepare themselves for the tempest?

8. What does Timothy tell Phillip to try to convince him that, despite his blindness, Phillip will be able to weave a sleeping mat?

9. Why is Phillip angry the first time Timothy goes to find langosta for their dinner?

10. In Chapter 13, after Phillip learns to fish, what evidence is there that Phillip is growing more confident?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are many examples of symbolism in The Cay. Name five of these symbols and discuss what each of them represents. Use specific examples from the book.

Essay Topic 2

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?

Essay Topic 3

Many of the characters in The Cay show great determination to achieve what they want. Name three characters who show determination. What are they determined to do? How do they achieve their goals?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 736 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample