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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. Along the way to the pole, what does the Ares crew install?

2. Who does Maya find intriguing more than attractive?

3. Who is working on an impact hammer when it malfunctions?

4. Who has approved the dispatch of GEMs?

5. Who has to take a drill simulation job?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Maya get involved in a sexual relationship with Frank on her off time from drills?

2. How does Nadia recognize that their technology is advanced and causes changes to Mars?

3. What do the Reds led by Ann believe?

4. What does Nadia notice when her expedition returns to the Ares colony?

5. When Michel is disturbed by a dark skinned man, what ends up happening to him that leaves him naked?

6. How are the first hundred colonists selected to go to Mars?

7. Why does Selim get angry after talking to Frank about John?

8. What does Maya initially feel about John and Frank and their relationship?

9. How does Nadia lose her finger?

10. Why is Nadia uncomfortable talking to Maya and what makes her long to escape the group?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Robinson is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphor, and irony, briefly describe them, and identify the technique which they embody.

Essay Topic 2

Explain the significance of the novel's title. What did the author mean by calling the book Red Mars? Cite an example to support your answer.

Essay Topic 3

Describe some of the settings for Red Mars. What is the overall setting? Be sure to include geography, time period, and any pertinent popular culture events. Why did Robinson choose to use these places in Red Mars?

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