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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. Why does Rod's instructor try to discourage him from taking the final exam?

2. Once through the gate to the unknown planet, who is the first classmate Rod sees?

3. What is Helen's nickname for Rod?

4. In Chapter 2, what sort of lamp does Mr. Walker light before dinner?

5. What rare treat does Jack share with Rod during their first meal together?

Short Essay Questions

1. What grisly sight does Rod encounter, shortly after arriving alone on an unknown planet?

2. Describe the "marching hordes" seen by Rod in Emigrants' Gap.

3. Why has Rod's sister, Helen, returned home to be with the family in Chapter 2?

4. What unusual decision have Rod's parents made, and why?

5. Who does the "dead" student in the tree turn out to be?

6. Why is Chapter 6 titled, "I Think He's Dead?"

7. What unusual phenomenon do Jack and Rod see in the sky at the end of Chapter 5, in addition to the pentagonal constellation?

8. How does Jack finally convince Rod that they are not on Terra?

9. What shocking secret does Jimmy reveal to Rod, regarding Jack?

10. Who does Rod finally agree to partner with, before traveling through the gate to an unknown planet?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe the main character's changing perception of "stobor" throughout the novel. What, ultimately, is a "stobor?" Why should everyone watch out for "stobor?"

Essay Topic 2

Consider the numerous marriages that take place during "Tunnel in the Sky." What qualities draw these couples together? Why is marriage considered so important in the students' settlement? How does Grant use wedding ceremonies to his advantage, while serving as mayor? Why does Rod never seem to consider finding a wife?

Essay Topic 3

What is Rod's dream job? Why is such a job important in his world? How do his experiences throughout "Tunnel in the Sky" prepare him for such a career? Why does he almost abandon his dreams near the end of the novel, when rescuers arrive?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 726 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample