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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 the "goody-goody girl" according to Beatrice?

2. According to Beatrice, the " manure machine" is what kind of animal?

3. This character states: "You're looking at the original half-life!"

4. What type of beverage is Beatrice drinking when the final scene in Act 1 begins?

5. In the final scene at the end of Act 1, what beverage is Nanny drinking?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Beatrice's demeanor toward Tillie at the end of the final scene in Act 1.

2. Describe Nanny's physical appearance.

3. Describe Beatrice's feelings toward Tillie's pet.

4. Is Beatrice content with her life?

5. How would you characterize Janice Vickery's presentation at the science fair? What does this scene do for the mood of the play?

6. Why do you think Tillie's appearance at the science fair is so important to Ruth?

7. In what way does Beatrice pay Tillie a compliment prior to the science fair?

8. Has Beatrice assisted Tillie with her project? If so, in what way?

9. Why does Beatrice not tell the truth to her daughters about her experiences in high school?

10. What is Beatrice's state when Tillie and Ruth return home from the science fair? How does she react to the news that Tillie has won?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Zindel's play explores the theme of science and its impact on humankind. Discuss the ways in which Zindel presents this theme throughout the course of the play. Do you agree or disagree with Tillie's statement at the conclusion of her science fair presentation: "THE DAY WILL COME WHEN MANKIND WILL THANK GOD FOR THE STRANGE AND BEAUTIFUL ENERGY FROM THE ATOM."

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the minor characters, Nanny and Janice Vickery, in Zindel's play.

a) How do Nanny and Janice Vickery function as sources of comic relief in the play?

b) In what way do Nanny and Janice Vickery further the plot in the play?

c) In what way do Nanny and Janice Vickery further the themes in the play?

d) Why does Zindel include these characters in the play?

Essay Topic 3

What is the overarching theme of Zindel's play?

a) Is the title of the play related to this theme?

b) In what ways does this theme become apparent in Tillie's monologues and in her science fair presentation?

c) Does the theme bring a positive message to the reader? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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