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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. How does Ishi know that the saldu have made it to the ledge of their village?

2. Ishi learns to stay awake for how many nights?

3. Why does Ishi shoot the hat off the saldu who is climbing up the trail?

4. From what kind of tree does Ishi cut the branch for his bow?

5. Why does Timawi carry the elk antlers on his head?

Short Essay Questions

1. According to Timawi, how were the seven remaining members of the Yahi tribe able to survive?

2. What details about the Harvest Feast suggest that Ishi and his family are the last of their tribe?

3. How do the stories that the Yahi tell about Timawi evolve following his death?

4. Where does Ishi decide to go on his journey?

5. What does Grandfather say to Elder Uncle in order to reassure him after Timawi and Ishi leave?

6. How do Elder Uncle and Grandfather begin to prepare Ishi for manhood in Section 5 of "The Moon Seasons?"

7. Why do Ishi and Tushi plan a Harvest Feast?

8. How is Ishi's bow important for his development into manhood?

9. How does Tushi's contribution to the move conflict with the traditional expectations that the Yahi have for women?

10. Why does Ishi go the Black Rock?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Throughout the novel, Ishi seems to be a pacifist. He is reprimanded in his youth for not killing the saldu who attempts to lasso Tushi, and he is disturbed by the news of the war across the ocean. Trace Ishi's history as a pacifist and explain how this approach to life influences him in later years. Be sure to include specific examples.

Essay Topic 2

Fire and water are both important symbols in the Yahi world and in the novel. Analyze the importance of these two elements and explain how these symbols support Ishi's story. Use specific examples to support your ideas.

Essay Topic 3

Rituals are an important part of Yahi life. Describe some of the important rituals and explain their importance to the Yahi. Why does Ishi continue to perform many of these rituals even after he is the last of his people? Why does he choose to share these rituals with others? Be sure to include specific details to support your observations.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,170 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample