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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. Joseph tells Tengo that one day blacks will take over the _____________________.

2. How does Tengo leave the schoolyard?

3. What are the people Tengo finds at the school when he arrives doing?

4. What do many of the student protesters suggest for the students?

5. Who is angry when learning about Tengo's desire to go to school?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Tengo suspect about Joseph who is rarely home these days?

2. Why does Tengo spend his school breaks studying with the help of a local preacher?

3. What reason does the reverend give Tengo on the importance of him continuing his education?

4. Why does Tengo have to ignore his mother's feelings before he departs for school?

5. What does Frikkie have to do after completing his education and what does he learn about Tengo's plans for schooling?

6. How much time has passed since the last chapter and what does Tengo no longer note about living in Johannesburg?

7. Why does Joseph's offer to help Tengo continue his education bring such relief to Tengo?

8. Why do Dr. and Mrs. Miller encourage Tengo to study art in school?

9. What arises which makes Tengo lose focus on his studies?

10. Where is Tengo finally allowed to go to school and why does this make the oubaas angry?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the significance of the book's title? What are some other possible titles for the book? List at least five and cite your reasons for each.

Essay Topic 2

Sheila Gordon is a master at dramatic devices. Choose examples of symbolism, metaphor, and irony. Briefly describe the technique which each displays.

Essay Topic 3

Explain the role of women in South Africa in the late-20th century when the women in the book are living their lives. What precedents do they feel compelled to follow? What restrictions do they have? What freedoms did they have that 21st century women do not have?

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