The Basics
What is the name of the story?
World-Class Runners
What is the name of the first major character?
Abebe Bikila
Having to do with the country
Rural
Where do some of the world's greatest runners come from according to the story?
Ethiopia
What did Bikila do when he grew up before running?
He joined the army.
Who is the author of the story?
Susan Herron
What is the name of the second major character?
Meseret Defar
Being tired
Fatigue
Why do the children of Ethiopia run so much? (2 reasons).
They often don't have paved roads; they have to run to school without cars; to get water and firewood; to go anywhere.
What kinds of food do Ethiopians eat?
Bread, meat stews, and a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Is the story fiction or nonfiction?
What are the names of the minor characters?
There are none!
Having a strong desire to win, wanting to win.
Competitive.
Why did Bikila run barefoot in the 1960 Olympics?
His shoes were worn out and he could not find a pair to replace them; he was used to running barefoot in Ethiopia.
What was the first race that Defar won and what medal did she get?
She won a gold medal in the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece.
What is the setting of the story?
Ethiopia 1960s - present.
When was Bikila's talent of running recognized?
Septemeber 10, 1960
Speeding up, getting faster and faster
Accelerating
Why did Defar have to do when she was growing up that made her a good runner?
Where did Bikila win a medal in 1964?
He won a gold medal at the Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.
What is the point of view of the story?
Third-person.
How far did the first major character run total in competitions?
393 miles
What is tukul?
Round clay houses that the Ethiopians live in.
What characteristics help Ethiopians become such great runners?
Breathing better at all altitudes and being light/fit.
How far did Bikila run in competitions all together?
393 miles.