Fables
What kind of characters are usually found in fables?
Animals that act like people
What is a folktale?
A story passed down orally from generation to generation
What is the purpose of a myth?
To explain natural events, customs, or beliefs
What do we call the person the story is mostly about?
The main character
What is one thing illustrations help us understand about a story?
The setting or where the story takes place
What is the central message of “The Tortoise and the Hare”?
Slow and steady wins the race
What is usually exaggerated in a tall tale, a type of folktale?
The character’s actions or abilities
Who is Zeus in Greek mythology?
The king of the gods
How does a character’s choice affect what happens in a story?
It can change the direction of the plot or cause problems to be solved
How can illustrations show a character’s feelings?
Through facial expressions and body language
In fables, what do we call the lesson the author wants us to learn?
The moral
Who is Paul Bunyan, and what’s special about him?
A giant lumberjack known for his superhuman strength; part of American tall tales
What natural event does the myth of Persephone explain?
The changing seasons
In “Little Red Riding Hood,” how does Red’s action of talking to the wolf affect the story?
It allows the wolf to trick her and get to Grandma’s house first
What does a dark and stormy illustration tell us about the mood of the story?
That it might be scary, sad, or mysteriou
In “The Fox and the Grapes,” why does the fox say the grapes are sour?
He can’t reach them and wants to feel better about failing
What is a common theme in folktales from many cultures?
Good is rewarded and evil is punished
In myths, what do gods and goddesses often do when humans make mistakes?
Punish or teach them a lesson
How does a character’s mistake help move the story forward?
It often creates a problem the character must fix, leading to important events.
How do illustrations help you understand the difference between the real world and fantasy?
They show magical creatures or impossible settings clearly
Retell the main events of “The Boy Who Cried Wolf” and explain the central message.
Boy lies about a wolf, villagers stop believing him, real wolf comes, no one helps; central message is not to lie.
What is a common character trait of heroes in folktales?
They are often brave, clever, or kind.
In myths, what do magical powers often symbolize?
A character’s role, strength, or connection to nature or the gods.
In a story where a character helps someone else, how does that action affect the ending?
It may lead to a reward, friendship, or resolution of the problem.
How can you tell the time of day or season from an illustration?
By looking at the colors, lighting, and background details like snow, leaves, or sunlight