Show Me a Sign

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

Multiple Choice

1. How is deafness viewed on Martha’s Vineyard in the novel?

A) It is seen as a difference and not a disease.

B) There is a prejudice toward deaf people on the island.

C) Many recognize deafness as a disease.

D) The differences between people are not acknowledged.

2. Which of the following is an example of social inequality in the novel?

A) The island plans to grant land to the Wampanoag.

B) The nonwhite population is treated poorly.

C) The deaf community is cast aside.

D) The islanders express ageism toward the older population.

3. How is Andrew Noble’s demeanor best described in the novel?

A) Pious and selfish

B) Aggressive and angry

C) Arrogant and contemptuous

D) People-pleasing and passive

4. Which of the following best describes how Andrew’s views on deafness are different from those who live on the island?

A) Andrew thinks deafness is caused by environmental factors.

B) Andrew believes deaf people should be poor like they are on the mainland.

C) Andrew is disgusted by the deaf community.

D) Andrew sees deafness as a sickness needing to be cured.

5. Why is Andrew’s attitude toward Ezra’s theories ironic?

A) Andrew’s theories are wrong as well.

B) Andrew's theories end up being correct.

C) Andrew's theories are extremely similar to Ezra's.

D) Andrew's theories contradict Ezra's.

6. Why does Mary feel especially helpless after Andrew Noble ties her hands?

A) She feels confined to one space.

B) She feels as if she cannot move.

C) She feels unable to communicate.

D) She feels she cannot escape.

7. How does Mary feel when she is with Andrew?

A) Unfulfilled emotionally

B) Like a science experiment

C) Intimidated by his intelligence

D) Like her boundaries are tested

8. Based on the novel, what can the reader infer Andrew Noble lacks?

A) Empathy

B) Intelligence

C) Perseverance

D) Prosperity

9. What is the significance of George’s map in the novel?

A) George's map provides Mary with the information she needs to navigate the island.

B) George's map helps Mary remember her brother and her home.

C) George's map gives Mary something to live for.

D) George's map serves as a metaphor for her journey.

10. How does Mary’s father advise her to confront prejudices?

A) To judge others harshly.

B) To be an example to others.

C) To stand up for the rights of others.

D) To ignore prejudice.

11. What event in the novel marks the turning point for Mary and her mother’s grief?

A) Mary and her mother put a wreath on George’s grave.

B) Mary confronts her grief after being kidnapped and taken to Boston.

C) Mary’s mother cleaned George’s room and Mary gave his map away.

D) Mary's disappearance creates changes in the community.

12. Which of the following is an example of prejudice in the novel?

A) Andrew believes all deaf people are unintelligent.

B) Ezra speculates deafness was caused by illness.

C) Andrew collects samples of the island to determine the cause of deafness.

D) Minot does not want Mary to read his notes.

Long Answer

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

1. This story is told from Mary’s perspective. Why do you think LeZotte chose Mary as the narrator? Do you think a hearing narrator might have taken a different approach?

2. Ezra is deaf and works in the outside world. How has this shaped his perspective on deafness? How does his experience influence Mary?