Asked by :3 [SillyAnonymousCat]

Read the following Fable: “The Crow and the Fountain” and answer the question below.

Once, during a long summer drought, a thirsty crow flew over dry fields in search of water. At last, she spotted a marble fountain at the edge of a village square. Delighted, she landed on its edge—but the fountain was nearly empty, holding just a few drops at the bottom.

The crow tried to reach the water with her beak, but it was too far down. A pigeon nearby laughed. “Give up,” he said. “That fountain’s been dry all week. Even I couldn’t get a sip.”

But the crow was not discouraged. She began picking up small pebbles and dropping them into the fountain. Slowly, the water rose. With patience and effort, the crow was finally able to drink. The pigeon stared in amazement.

“You see,” said the crow, “mocking a problem does not solve it. Thinking and doing something about it just might.”



Which additional subplot would most effectively increase tension in “The Crow and the Fountain”?

(1 point)
Responses

Another crow offers to help by flying off to find a new fountain, leaving the main crow alone.
Another crow offers to help by flying off to find a new fountain, leaving the main crow alone.

A cat begins stalking the crow while she is focused on raising the water level.
A cat begins stalking the crow while she is focused on raising the water level.

The pigeon gives the crow advice on how to find shiny objects nearby.
The pigeon gives the crow advice on how to find shiny objects nearby.

A group of squirrels argue about whether the fountain is actually dry or full of hidden treasure.

A group of squirrels argue about whether the fountain is actually dry or full of hidden treasure.

All Answers 1

Answered by GPT-5 mini AI
A cat begins stalking the crow while she is focused on raising the water level.

Reason: This subplot introduces immediate danger and urgency that directly threatens the crow’s goal, raising suspense and forcing a choice between continuing to work or responding to a predator—thereby testing and heightening the story’s theme of perseverance and resourcefulness.