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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 does the Alchemist say quests always begin with?

2. What does the Englishman plan on using the object he built outside of his tent for?

3. What precautions do Santiago and the Alchemist take as they travel through the desert?

4. What does Santiago declare before he leaves with the Alchemist in Part 5?

5. What does Santiago notice the Englishman has gained as he begins to try to turn lead into gold?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does the Alchemist warn Santiago to be cautious when making his predictions?

2. What conclusion does Santiago make about all of the information he reads in the Englishman's books?

3. What brave step does Santiago take at the beginning of Part 5?

4. What does the Alchemist tell Santiago about learning to turn lead into gold?

5. What does the tribal chief assure Santiago that the tribe always does?

6. What is the only way to stay happy according to the camel driver, who is a friend to Santiago?

7. How does Santiago propose one should learn about the universal language?

8. What does the Alchemist say needs to happen in order for them to realize their destiny?

9. What does Santiago tell his heart in Part 6?

10. Why are all oases considered neutral ground during battles?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The book has a subtitle, A Fable about Following Your Dreams. Do you believe this is an appropriate subtitle? Support your answer with your own personal opinion and details from the text.

Essay Topic 2

Explain the importance of literacy within this novel. Do not report on being unable to read the novel if one is illiterate. Instead, focus on how literacy brings power within the novel. Provide specific examples to support your opinion.

Essay Topic 3

Throughout the story, Santiago continues refining his skills. Explain how, throughout your life, you have continued to refine specific skills. Be sure to include examples of the events or activities you had to do to refine your skills and make connections to how Santiago had to refine his skills.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 614 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample