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. While Triton is in the kitchen after the Christmas Eve dinner, who visits him, and why?

2. Triton recalls a time when he is making lasagna and Nili tells him that ___.

3. Who is Palitha Aluthgoda, a prominent figure who is assassinated?

4. As Triton unpacks Nili's suitcases, what fascinates him?

5. On the morning of the poker party, Nili is in a bad mood and won't ___.

Short Essay Questions

1. What transformations does the household undergo after Miss Nili moves into Mr. Salgado's house?

2. Who is Nili?

3. How is Triton's name a fitting choice in light of the story's theme and setting?

4. Describe Triton's experience at the Christmas Eve dinner.

5. Problems start to appear in the relationship between Miss Nili and Mr. Salgado, and she's in a very bad mood right before a poker party. What does she do during the party, and how does Mr. Salgado react?

6. Describe the tension that exists between Mr. Salgado and the journalist who comes to ask him questions about sea erosion.

7. When his friend, Mr. Dias Liyanage, offers Mr. Salgado a job with a foundation interested in the coral business, why is Mr. Salgado reluctant to take this job?

8. What does Mr. Salgado do on Christmas Eve?

9. Explain how the ocean is used as a significant symbol in "Part III, A Thousand Fingers".

10. How does the personal transformation of Wijetunga, Mr. Salgado's work assistant, reflect the transformation taking place in Sri Lanka?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

One of the major themes in Reef is the following: "Regardless of our efforts, change is inevitable." Using three specific examples from the book, show how the author carries this theme through.

Essay Topic 2

Through several tense and trying episodes, Triton grows and gains new perspectives on life. Citing a specific example for each character listed, explaining how tense interactions with the following individuals help Triton to develop. What new perspectives does he gain through these difficult encounters?

1. Mr. Salgado.

2. Joseph.

Essay Topic 3

Compare and contrast the simplicity of Triton's life as a servant with the deep wisdom he exudes in his narration and philosophical musings. In what ways does Triton exhibit greater wisdom and maturity than the supposedly more important people he's talking about?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,313 words (approx. 5 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample