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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. Even though there has never been another wave like the big wave, the people ________________________.

2. Who leads Kino and Jiya into the Old Gentleman's castle?

3. What does Kino's father demand that Jiya do before making his decision about the Old Gentleman's offer?

4. The Old Gentleman says it is a pity that ______________ would not be his son.

5. What can Kino tell about Jiya when he sees him after Jiya learns about the Old Gentleman's offer?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is Jiya's rationale for why the Old Gentleman's castle is no safer than a house on the beach?

2. How does Jiya prepare his house so that he and Setsu can live there and not be afraid of another big wave coming?

3. Describe how Jiya spends the first days after the deaths of his family members.

4. Why is the Old Gentleman frustrated with the young men building the house on the beach?

5. How does Kino's father respond to Kino when he states that the Japanese people are unlucky to live in the middle of so much danger?

6. How has Jiya conducted himself in the years since the deaths of his family members?

7. What does Jiya say that shows his humility when the Old Gentleman says that Jiya is the best boy in the village?

8. How do people in the village measure time now?

9. What is the reason that the Old Gentleman comes up the mountain to see Jiya?

10. How does Kino show his selflessness regarding Jiya's decision and why does Jiya refuse to stay at the Old Gentleman's castle?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

THE BIG WAVE is a classic story of loss and renewal. What does that classification entail? Why does this book fit into this category? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

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

Essay Topic 3

Create a brief character study of the Old Gentleman. What does he look like? What are his positive personality traits? What are some of his negative characteristics? What are his hopes and fears? What motivates him--if anything--at this point in his life?

(see the answer keys)

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