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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 has Mma Makutsi been thinking of since the beginning of the novel?

2. With how many typewriters does Mma Makutsi plan to start her business?

3. Why does Mma Makutsi think that Mr. Matekoni will not like the idea of the school?

4. What is Mma Ramotswe's marital status?

5. Mma Makutsi thinks about all the men who do not know how to __________________.

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Mma Ramotswe reassure her foster daughter about her problem?

2. What consumes Mma Ramotswe's thoughts as the novel opens?

3. What are other people's thoughts about the potential for success of Mma Makutsi's typing school?

4. What does Mma Ramotswe learn about a problem her foster daughter is struggling with?

5. What is the author's purpose for the first two chapters of the novel?

6. What is the one condition to which Mma Makutsi must agree in exchange for the typewriters?

7. For what reason does Mr. Molefelo now need Mma Ramotswe's services?

8. Describe Mr. Buthelezi. Why is he such a negative presence?

9. Why does Mma Ramotswe find it necessary to create a diversion at the church service?

10. What does Mr. Matekoni encounter when he comes to Mma Ramotswe's home to water the vegetable plants?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Women's rights is an important theme in The Kalahari Typing School for Men. Can you cite an example to support this theme? Name two other themes and cite examples for support.

Essay Topic 2

Alexander McCall Smith is a master at dramatic devices. Choose examples of symbolism, metaphor, and irony. Briefly explain each example and identify the technique used.

Essay Topic 3

What is the overall setting for the novel? Be sure to include geography, time period, and any pertinent popular culture events. Why did Smith choose to use this setting in the novel?

(see the answer keys)

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