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. What time does the Old Man consider special and valuable?

2. Who comes to visit from Maryland in Chapter 5?

3. What does Bobby see that makes him feel energized to work in Chapter 11?

4. Who did NOT go hunting along with Bobby?

5. What damage will the Old Man and Bobby work on repairing in Chapter 11?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Bobby receive a gun from the Old Man as he turns 11?

2. Describe the camping trip preparations and arrival in Chapter 5.

3. How does Bobby learn to shoot ducks in Chapter 3?

4. Describe Carrie Mae.

5. Describe some of the customs that the Old Man and Bobby do in the month of October.

6. Describe Bobby's experience with the goat he purchases.

7. Describe Bobby.

8. Describe Bobby's experience that is similar to a young colt.

9. What is the lesson that Bobby learns from having a dog in Chapter 7?

10. How does Bobby learn humility in Chapter 10?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe the social, cultural and economic environment of The Old Man and the Boy. What are common customs? What is considered taboo? How does the Old Man offer his values and beliefs to Bobby? What effect does this have on Bobby and which values does he adopt? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

Education is an important theme throughout the novel. Who is educated? Who is not? What is the importance of a school education versus one of "real life?" How does Bobby gain knowledge in both? How does he change? Describe.

Essay Topic 3

Coming of age is a major theme of The Old Man and the Sea. How is this theme explored and expressed in the book? What experiences does Bobby have that help him progress through puberty and into adulthood? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,061 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample