The Martian

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

Multiple Choice

1. Why should bodies be left behind if any crew members die on Mars?

A) It is a way to honor their sacrifice.

B) There is no way to preserve a body on the return flight.

C) The extra weight will use up valuable fuel.

D) It is too risky for the other crew members to retrieve a body.

2. After making an inventory of his resources, what does Watney conclude?

A) His situation is ultimately hopeless.

B) Rescue is possible only if he can survive for four years.

C) If he can communicate with Earth, NASA might figure out how to rescue him.

D) He can live on Mars indefinitely if he’s smart enough.

3. Why does Watney flee to the rover?

A) Too much hydrogen might blow up the Hab.

B) Too much water might flood the Hab.

C) Too much nitrogen has poisoned the Hab’s air.

D) Too much CO₂ has made the Hab’s air toxic.

4. What does Watney wondering why Rosco doesn’t just go to the Dukes’ farm instead of trying to catch the General Lee tell us about him?

A) He’s sympathetic to law enforcement.

B) He’s always problem-solving.

C) He understands car engines.

D) He craves human companionship.

5. For what purpose does Venkat believe Watney intends to travel to the Ares 4 site?