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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. When Rod leaves the settlement with Roy to seek out a better location, who is appointed city manager in his place?

2. The title of Chapter 12 is a quote from which character?

3. In Chapter 11, why does Roy resign his appointed position as the boss hunter?

4. According to Caroline's inventory, how many fishhooks does the settlement possess?

5. In Chapter 14 when the survivors discuss what they would do if rescue finally comes, who is the only person to say he would return to Terra?

Short Essay Questions

1. What creature attacks Roy, surprising him?

2. Early in Chapter 8, how is Jack injured?

3. During a square dance in Chapter 14, what do almost all of the students say they would do if rescuers come?

4. At the end of the novel, what is Rod doing?

5. How do Rod and Caroline clash the first time they try to hunt together?

6. Where does Rod think the students should move their colony?

7. What demands does Rod make of Grant in Chapter 10, before agreeing to serve as his city manager?

8. Why does Rod banish Jock and his friends, four older boys, from the colony?

9. Why, according to Caroline, is Carmen unable to relocate to a new place?

10. Who becomes the first elected mayor of the student settlement in Chapter 8?

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

What clues does the author provide as the novel progresses that dopey joes may not be mere harmless, slow, clumsy creatures? What ultimate impact do the dopey joes have on the settlement created by the stranded students? What lesson does Heinlein wish to impart, by showcasing the dramatic changes exhibited by the dopey joes?

Essay Topic 3

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?

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This section contains 669 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample