Question/Predict/Evaluate
1. Describe the weather conditions at the beginning of this chapter. How could the buoys help Thad through
the channel? Will the buoys substitute for an experienced captain?
2. How is Thad handling the pressure?
3. What kind of damage could the iron ship have caused to the Neptune? What does Thad do to avoid it?
4. What is the “ghastly realization” that he makes? How does Abigail help Thad avoid the Columbine? Could
he have done it without her?
5. Why was it good news that the tow rope had pulled tight?
6. What suggestions do you have for Thad as the Albany becomes his next obstacle? What should he do now?
The Newspaper Connection
1. On the editorial pages readers can sound off about their opinions on any subject. Create a letter that Thad or
Abigail would want to write about the “land lubbers” or “stupid captains” who have caused such chaos in
their day on the water. What would they want to say and what would their suggestions be to avoid problems
on the water?
2. Thad must use navigational aids like the buoys to steer the boat. What are the navigational aids you use in a
newspaper that get you around and help you find things? If your paper has an electronic edition, how do you
navigate the site as well.
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The Van Kull
Channel
CHA P T E R 6
VOC A B U L A R Y / CON T E X T / D E F I N I T I ON
buoys
“The narrow Van Kull Channel was
marked by a few red buoys that
suggested the way.” (markers, floats that
identify the passage a boat should take)
momentum
“But, carried by its momentum, the ship
kept gliding forward.”
(force, drive, energy)
ghastly
“Momentarily, Thad felt relief, only to
have a ghastly realization.” (horrifying)
turbulence
“The water turbulence was too great.”
(unstable, violent flow a liquid)
