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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. What is true of Sass during Chandra's first visit home?

2. What life changing event occurs in Chapter 6?

3. What does Koly do each morning after Chandra is gone?

4. Why does the benefactor of the widow's home say her father started the home?

5. Who does Koly stay with on her first night in Vrindavan?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Koly and Sass's first interaction with the rickshaw driver.

2. Who is Mala and what is she like?

3. What happens when Koly cannot find Sass at the temple after taking the 50 rupees to buy lunch?

4. Explain why the benefactor funds the widow's home where Koly stays.

5. Describe Koly's financial situation in Chapter 8.

6. Explain why Sass sells her house.

7. Describe Koly's introduction to Maa Kamala's home.

8. Describe the room that Koly stays in at Maa Kamala's.

9. What is the importance of Koly's visit to the government office in Chapter 6?

10. How does the rickshaw driver help Koly in Chapter 8?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In this novel, Koly is a part of many traditions, but she also acts in ways that are contrary to traditions of the time and place.

1) How do Koly's actions support a belief that traditions are important? Give at least three examples and justify your answer.

2) How do Koly's actions support a belief that traditions are less important than some other value in her life? Define that value and support your answer.

3) How does Koly's acceptance or rejection of certain traditions help or hurt her in the story? Give at least three examples with evidence.

Essay Topic 2

The title Homeless Bird has much significance for Koly. Analyze the meaning of this title for the book, and to Koly. Consider the questions below when formulating your responses.

1)If the Tagore book was not included in the story, would this label have as strong a meaning?

2) What other events or objects in the story make this title significant?

3) What other titles could have been given to this novel?

Essay Topic 3

Tagore's book of poems is an object of great importance to Koly.

1) Describe how this book helps her find her way to freedom, independence, and happiness.

2) Describe the cost of obtaining this book to Koly.

3) Explain what the Tagore book means to Koly, Sass, and Sassur.

(see the answer keys)

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