Breathing Underwater

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

Multiple Choice

1. How does Nick’s internal dialogue primarily impact the reading of the novel?

A) It makes it easy for the reader to understand what Caitlin is feeling.

B) It allows the reader to track Nick’s personal growth through his thoughts.

C) It provides the reader with a one-sided, but reliable, perspective.

D) It helps the reader feel intense empathy for Nick’s challenges and struggles.

2. How does Nick exhibit signs of controlling behavior in his relationship with Caitlin?

A) He incessantly checks her phone.

B) He searches through her notes at school.

C) He calls Caitlin’s mom asking for Caitlin.

D) He isolates her from friends.

3. Why is it ironic that Nick is offended when the judge characterizes him by his clothing?

A) Nick often characterizes others in the same way.

B) Nick’s family is wealthy, and his clothing is pristine.

C) Nick has never been criticized for his clothing.

D) Caitlin had often addressed Nick’s poor clothing choices.

4. What does Nick’s Mustang serve as a symbol for in the novel?

A) It illustrates Nick’s inherited propensity toward violence.

B) It reveals Nick’s anger and frustration in his relationships.

C) It symbolizes the loss of his careful control over Caitlin.

D) It represents his father’s abuse and his own identity.

5. What causes Nick to attempt to control things?