Analytical questions for holiday work. 1. Read the book carefully and respond to the following question. 2. Some questions will only make sense to students who have already read the book. Students reading it for the first time should leave spaces in order to develop responses after your reading and during class. 3. Also, make sure that you develop a list of question as you read so you can move beyond being the passive reader to the actively involved reader.
You will be given a knowledge test on the novel during the first week of Term 3 so be prepared!!!!
Author’s Note (remember that this is the fictional persona created by Martel)
1. What is the writer/author’s intent in this section? 2. Describe the author’s character. Give specific examples to support your interpretation. 3. What is the relevance of the reference to Kierkergaard? (research this philosopher) 4. What is the significance of the reference to the French colonization of Pondicherry? 5. What will supposedly make the author believe in God? 6. Consider the significance of the word “bamboozle” within the context of this novel.
Part 1: Toronto and Pondicherry
Chapter 1 * Consider the significances of Pi’s double major in Zoology and Religious studies? * In what ways does Patel allude to his suffering and the influence that suffering has had on him. Many of Pi’s anecdotes relate to human’s cruelty to each other. * How does the description of the survival of the three toed sloth foreshadow other events in the story? * Consider the significance of Pi’s loyalty to both India and Canada. * Discuss his memory of Richard Parker
Chapter 2 1. Why is this chapter written in italics? How is Pi depicted at this stage in his life?
Chapter 3 1. What is the significance of Pi’s name and how is swimming connected to the survival story?
Chapter 4 1. Discuss Pi’s fascination with animal behaviour and