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

Short Answer Questions

1. How do Uncle and Obasan greet each other at their reunification?

2. Which word is the best translation of the Japanese word "wagamama" used in the novel?

3. What does Stephen tell Naomi about where their father is staying in New Denver?

4. What instrument is Stephen allowed to play at his American school?

5. What part of the swamp animal's body is broken when Naomi takes it home?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Throughout the novel, Kogawa uses many different forms of figurative language including personification, simile, metaphor, and onomatopoeia. Describe the ways that Kogawa uses figurative language to propel the momentum of the storyline, and explain the ways that these tools of language affect the reader's relationship with the text.

Essay Topic 2

Mr. Gower had a very large impact on Naomi's life as a child. Explain the relationship that Naomi had with her neighbor and discuss the ways that this relationship affected Naomi's use of silence, and her ability to love.

Essay Topic 3

Silence is a revered characteristic in Japanese culture. Explain the significance of silence to the characters in the novel, and explain the effect that silence has on an individual character level within the novel, as well as a cultural level in the era that this novel is set.

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