View a FREE sample

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 first thing Santiago asks the boy to bring him when he finally wakes up?

2. What disappointment does the old man feel because he has been out in his boat for days?

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

4. How long does Santiago think he will be out to sea the morning he leaves to go far out?

5. Why does Santiago wish the marlin would sleep?

Short Essay Questions

1. How do you know that Santiago only intended to fish for one day when he left to go far out into the sea?

2. Why is it important for Santiago to see the fish he has caught?

3. Why did Santiago give up arm wrestling?

4. How does Hemingway use conversation between the old man and the boy to show Santiago's age?

5. Describe Santiago's meal on the second day and why he was so pleased after he ate.

6. When there is another bite on one of his other lines, Santiago cuts it loose. Why?

7. There is something almost religious about Santiago's walk to his shack after landing with the bones of the marlin. Describe it.

8. How does the old man utilize the power of positive thinking as he struggles with the huge marlin during the night?

9. What is the bond between Santiago and the boy?

10. How does Santiago show his resolution as he holds the line and thinks about all the things the fish might do?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay about fishing as a hobby versus fishing for a living.

Essay Topic 2

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

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay about respect for nature. Use Santiago as support for your position.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 844 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample