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

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Tillie, the seeds which received moderate radiation ...

2. According to Miss Hanley, Beatrice is:

3. At the beginning of Act 2, Ruth reveals that she overheard a conversation between two people. Who are these people?

4. What happens to Tillie's pet in Act 2?

5. What is missing from Janice Vickery's experimental specimen?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Analyze Tillie's presentation at the science fair. In what way do her findings relate to the play's overriding theme? Compare the effects of radiation on the marigolds to the effects of Beatrice's words and actions on her daughters. What are the implications in terms of Tillie's and Ruth's fate, compared to the fate of the marigolds?

Essay Topic 2

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?

Essay Topic 3

Explore the concept of conformity versus individuality in Zindel's play. In what ways do the characters conform to society's expectations of them? In what ways do they remain independent? Which character conforms the most? Which character conforms the least?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 290 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample