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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. What is the boy's name?

2. How does Santiago imagine Joe DiMaggio would be able to do what he is doing with the marlin?

3. What complaint does the boy have about the fisherman he works for after he is forced to leave Santiago?

4. What does the old man do to prepare for the arrival of the shark?

5. When do the sharks return after Santiago loses his makeshift harpoon?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Santiago's first sighting of the marlin.

2. Describe the last moments that define the valor of the great marlin.

3. How does Santiago compare himself to the great sea turtles that are as big as a skiff and weigh a ton?

4. What happens when the first shark attacks the marlin?

5. Since the fish is too large to fit into the boat, how does Santiago plan on getting it back to shore?

6. Identify a few passages in the story that indicate the pride of Santiago.

7. What is Santiago's analysis of having a cramp, especially when one is alone?

8. Santiago recalls that he used to sing on the turtle boats, whereas now he talks out loud to himself. When does he think the talking began?

9. Why did Santiago give up arm wrestling?

10. How does the man-of-war bird help Santiago catch an albacore?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay about gaining knowledge and wisdom through experience versus formal education. Use Santiago as your example.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay about how people turn to religion when times are difficult.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay explaining you opinion on what happens to the old man after he returns with the marlin bones.

(see the answer keys)

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