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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. To the rest of the gulls, it is not flying that matters, but ________.

2. Who was dismayed with Jonathan for his unique way of living?

3. The Elders hope Jonathan will live long enough to realize life is _________ and unknowable.

4. What is Jonathan limited by, according to the strange voice he hears in his head?

5. What does Jonathan drop on purpose when he realizes he just wants to fly and it was pointless for him to try to be like other birds?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens when Jonathan fails and he begins to turn his thoughts to just sinking to the bottom of the sea?

2. What are the names of the five moves Jonathan learns to do when he is practicing his flying all the time?

3. Who is the seagull that practices flying slowly, far apart from the others as they are searching for food and eating?

4. As Jonathan begins his pull out during his record-setting speed, what happens?

5. What does the voice in Jonathan's head have to say about gulls flying in the dark?

6. At what height does Jonathan attempt to dive from the morning after his accident and realization?

7. What does Jonathan think the solution might be to his problem in #6?

8. What is Jonathan's reasoning for wanting to teach the others?

9. What does Jonathan realize is the secret to his success in flying close to the water?

10. Why doesn't Jonathan feel guilty about breaking the promise to the voice in his head?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The role of the instructor in this story is one that begins with Sullivan. As one of Johnathan's first teachers, it is clear that in order to gain the knowledge he needs, Johnathan will need guidance.

Part 1: What kind of teacher is Sullivan to Jonathan?

Part 2: What facts does Sullivan reveal about being a Gull and being in heaven?

Part 3: Would you say the relationship between Sullivan and Jonathan is positive or negative? Support your answer.

Essay Topic 2

When Chiang vanishes, it seems to be a surprise to the reader and to the Gulls in the story. This apparent transfiguration seems to also be symbolic of Chiang's place in his learning.

Part 1: Describe the scene in which Chiang vanishes from view.

Part 2: What is thought to have happened that caused Chiang to vanish?

Part 3: Do you think this vanishing was meant to be taken literally or metaphorically? Why?

Essay Topic 3

The idea of Jonathan being a freethinker seems to be both good and bad. At times, it seems Jonathan might be making more of a mess of his life than he needs to.

Part 1: In what ways does Jonathan's freethinking benefit him in this story?

Part 2: In what ways does Jonathan's freethinking hurt him in this story?

Part 3: If you were in Jonathan's shoes, what sort of life would you choose - a freethinker or a follower? What is the reasoning behind your answer?

(see the answer keys)

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