Life of PI Exam

Which of the following best summarizes the plot of Life of Pi?

• • A. Pi is stranded on a lifeboat in the Pacific Ocean with a tiger named Richard Parker, and he must use his faith, resourcefulness, and survival skills to stay alive until rescue.

• • B. Pi learns about zoology from his father’s zoo and decides to study animals for the rest of his life, eventually becoming a famous scientist.

• • C. Pi’s family moves to Canada, and he struggles to adapt to his new life in a foreign country, facing challenges and making new friends.

• • D. Pi spends years traveling around the world, learning about different religions, and discovering the meaning of life.

Answer explanation

Choice A accurately captures the essence of 'Life of Pi', focusing on Pi's survival journey on a lifeboat with a tiger, highlighting his faith and resourcefulness, which are central themes of the story.

Tags

TEKS.ELA.9-12.II.A.3

In the passage, Pi says, “My faith became a quiet companion, helping me endure when I felt like giving up.” The word companion most nearly means:

• • A. An object

• • B. A friend or supporter

• • C. A challenge

• • D. A stranger

Answer explanation

In the passage, Pi describes his faith as a 'quiet companion,' indicating it provides support and comfort. Therefore, 'companion' most nearly means 'a friend or supporter,' making option B the correct choice.

Tags

TEKS.ELA.9-12.II.B

What is a central theme in "Life of Pi" that is developed through Pi's experiences?

• The importance of wealth

• The struggle for survival

• The pursuit of knowledge

• The value of friendship

Answer explanation

A central theme in 'Life of Pi' is the struggle for survival, as Pi faces extreme challenges while stranded at sea. His experiences highlight the lengths one will go to endure and the resilience of the human spirit.

Tags

TEKS.ELA.9-12.II.C.2

How does Pi's time on the lifeboat contribute to the theme of survival?

• He learns to rely solely on his faith.

• He becomes more dependent on others.

• He develops resourcefulness and resilience.

• He gives up hope and waits for rescue.

Answer explanation

Pi's time on the lifeboat forces him to adapt and innovate for survival, showcasing his resourcefulness and resilience. He learns to find food, manage his environment, and maintain hope, which are crucial for enduring his ordeal.

Tags

TEKS.ELA.9-12.II.C.2

Which of the following experiences best illustrates Pi's growth in understanding the importance of coexistence?

• His relationship with his family before the shipwreck.

• His interactions with Richard Parker on the lifeboat.

• His time spent in the hospital after being rescued.

• His memories of his school life in India.

Answer explanation

Pi's interactions with Richard Parker on the lifeboat illustrate his growth in understanding coexistence, as he learns to rely on and respect the tiger for survival, highlighting the necessity of harmony between different beings.

Tags

TEKS.ELA.9-12.II.D.1

How does Pi's religious faith contribute to the central theme of the story?

• It provides him with a sense of superiority.

• It offers him comfort and hope during his ordeal.

• It causes him to question his beliefs.

• It leads him to abandon his survival instincts.

Answer explanation

Pi's religious faith provides him with comfort and hope during his ordeal at sea, helping him to endure the challenges he faces. This theme of faith as a source of strength is central to his survival.

Tags

TEKS.ELA.9-12.II.C.2

What does Pi's relationship with Richard Parker symbolize in the context of the story's themes?

• The unpredictability of nature.

• The duality of fear and companionship.

• The inevitability of death.

• The simplicity of life at sea.

Answer explanation

Pi's relationship with Richard Parker embodies the duality of fear and companionship, illustrating how survival can forge unexpected bonds. Their connection highlights the complexity of human emotions in dire circumstances.

Tags

TEKS.ELA.9-12.II.C.2

How does Pi's knowledge of zoology aid in his survival?

• It helps him identify edible plants.

• It allows him to train Richard Parker.

• It enables him to navigate the ocean.

• It teaches him to build a shelter.

Answer explanation

Pi's knowledge of zoology is crucial for training Richard Parker, the Bengal tiger. Understanding animal behavior allows him to establish dominance and create a bond, which is essential for his survival on the lifeboat.

Tags

TEKS.ELA.9-12.II.A.3

TEKS.ELA.9-12.II.D.1

TEKS.ELA.9-12.II.A.5

In what way does Pi's experience at sea challenge his understanding of faith?

• It strengthens his belief in one religion.

• It forces him to abandon his religious practices.

• It leads him to question the existence of God.

• It deepens his appreciation for multiple faiths.

Answer explanation

Pi's journey at sea exposes him to extreme challenges, leading him to embrace and appreciate the teachings of multiple religions rather than adhering strictly to one, thus deepening his understanding of faith.

Tags

TEKS.ELA.9-12.II.C.2

Which literary device is used when Pi describes the ocean as a "vast, living entity"?

• Simile

• Metaphor

• Personification

• Hyperbole

Answer explanation

Pi uses personification when he describes the ocean as a 'vast, living entity,' attributing human-like qualities to it. This device emphasizes the ocean's power and presence, making it feel alive and significant.

Tags

TEKS.ELA.9-12.II.A.6