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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. Auntie had a tongue "like hungry scissors _________________________.

2. Lindo became aware of who she really was when ________________________________.

3. Waverly Jong learned the finer points of chess from ___________________.

4. The child finally decides to ______________________.

5. The woman's feels her daughter __________________.

Short Essay Questions

1. Discuss the reason that An-Mei's mother is considered a "ghost" and does not live with her children.

2. This parable is loaded with symbolism. Since the old woman paid a "foolish sum" for the swan, and then loses it, what might this symbolize?

3. What triggers Ying-Ying's early memory of her traumatic fall from the family boat?

4. Discuss the "scar" reference. How did it happen and why?

5. The imagery of the woman fluttering her arms when the swan is taken from her is sad. What does it imply?

6. What does Lindo's snuffing the candle out signify?

7. Discuss why the woman has never told her daughter about the single feather she kept from the swan.

8. Discuss how it is that the Italian girl next door provides a sense of peace for Lena.

9. Is Ying-Ying a neglected child?

10. Discuss the unusual circumstances under which Lena lives.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are many references in this story to the invasion of China by Japan. Write an expository essay revealing why Japan invaded China and what it hoped to gain by this. What were the circumstances of the war that made China vulnerable? What was the outcome between the two countries? Did China accomplish what it hoped to by invading Japan?

Essay Topic 2

Gold, as a medium of exchange, has been highly valued for centuries. Do some research on gold and write an essay on the early origins of its use, why it retains its value, and how it is used today. Form your own opinions as to the future of the value of gold, and give your reasons for your opinions.

Essay Topic 3

On page 22 of The Joy Luck Club, Suyuan Woo describes the effects of war on the town of Kweilin. In effect, people from all walks of life became more equal in the midst of a disaster. Write an expository essay about events that tend to "level the playing field" in our society, whether as a whole or in groups or sectors. Consider natural disasters, economic disasters, political and other events.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,070 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample