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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through March 16.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How does Steinbeck describe a scientist's reaction to death of a sea creature?
(a) He describes the scientist's approach to the experience as an exciting adventure.
(b) He describes the scientist's approach to the experience as someone finally climbing a mountain that is so hard to climb.
(c) He describes the scientist's approach to the experience as a child getting the toy that he wished for.
(d) He describes the scientist's approach to the experience as an opportunity to learn more about the species.

2. How does Steinbeck compare navigation at sea to life?
(a) He likens trying to keep a course to attempting to achieve an ideal.
(b) He likens trying to keep a course to walking a tight pole.
(c) He likens sea navigation to cooking a gourmet course.
(d) He likens sea navigation to courting a girl.

3. Who is the most competent in commanding the wheel?
(a) Tex.
(b) Tony.
(c) Ed.
(d) John.

4. What is the Western Flyer?
(a) It is a favorite watering hole by John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts.
(b) It is a rare species of bird found only in Mexico.
(c) It is a well-maintained vessel owned by Tony Berry used for the expedition.
(d) It is the boat owned and maintained by Ed Ricketts.

5. Why does the author write the story?
(a) He wants the world to know his good friend Ed Ricketts.
(b) He wants to be known as a man who liked to travel the seas.
(c) He wants to write about how traveling at sea can be done on a limited budget.
(d) He wants future travelers to have better information that can help them prepare for a similar expedition.

Short Answer Questions

1. What are the two types of biologists, as discussed by John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts?

2. What happens to the porpoises, as observed by Steinbeck and Ricketts?

3. What is interesting about the bonito and other fish that caught Steinbeck and Ricketts' attention?

4. What is the concept explored by the author in the section that pertains to boats and men?

5. According to John Steinbeck, what does a well-cared for and lovingly maintained boat indicate?

(see the answer key)

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