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83 pages 2 hours read

E. B. White

The Trumpet of the Swan

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1970

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Exam Questions

Multiple Choice and Long Answer questions create ideal opportunities for whole-text review, unit exam, or summative assessments.

Multiple Choice

1. How does Sam display a unique understanding of nature that many adults do not?

A) He recognizes that schoolwork is more important than actions.

B) He realizes that many adults do not take the time to observe nature.

C) He understands the importance of communication even in the animal world.

D) He takes the initiative to spend time outdoors, unlike his parents.

2. What is Sam’s method for developing scientific ideas?

A) Research and discussion

B) Observation and questioning

C) Data collection and interpretation

D) Analysis and theory development

3. What comparison might be made between the cob and the pen’s responsibility to the nest?

A) The cob is responsible for safety while the pen is responsible for nest building.

B) The pen is responsible for feeding while the cob maintains the nest’s cleanliness.

C) The pen is responsible for maintaining the nest while the cob soon abandons it.

D) The cob and the pen play identical roles in raising the cygnets.

4. What are the novel’s views on privacy and self-isolation?

A) They are detrimental to the enjoyment of individual experiences.

B) They cause a permanent separation from family members.

C) They help in the development of polite behavior.

D) They ensure an individual is secure in abilities and talents.

5. Which of the following best describes the way Louis’s disability impacts his goals?

A) He gives up on pursuing dreams that would require him to have a voice.

B) He allows his siblings to find other ways in which they are superior.

C) He attempts to compensate by becoming the best at other swan skills.

D) He tries to communicate with other swans using his body language.

6. What advice would Louis likely give regarding work as a musician?

A) Satisfaction comes from working with people you enjoy.

B) More money is better when working in the music industry.

C) Zoos don’t make for very good working environments.

D) Bosses are the same across the industry.

7. What is the significance of the trumpet as a symbol in the story?

A) It represents Louis’s desire to be a famous musician.

B) It represents Louis’s voice and his means of communication.

C) It embodies Louis’s desire to prove himself to Serena and his family.

D) It symbolizes the musical instrument Louis uses to make money.

8. Which of the following best describes Sam’s individual talent?

A) Money management

B) Communication

C) Problem-solving

D) People skills

9. What is the impact on the plot of Sam’s friendship with Louis?

A) Louis helps Sam identify his purpose in life.

B) The friendship creates conflict, complications, and misunderstandings.

C) Sam has little influence on Louis or the plot.

D) Sam provides solutions to help Louis overcome challenges.

10. How does the cob view his offspring?

A) He sees them as an extension of himself.

B) He feels unable to resolve their problems.

C) He is not concerned about their future.

D) He appreciates their independence and instincts.

Long Answer

Compose a response of 2-3 sentences, incorporating text details to support your response.

1. What does Sam believe to be his duty regarding nature and the environment?

2. What challenges does Louis face throughout the story and how does he overcome them?

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