Paragraph 1: Write an intro paragraph that identifies the main characters in The Swallow and the Pumpkinseed and Don’t Count Your Chickens. Tell what life lesson or important values the younger brothers in the two stories help the readers to understand. (See Unit 10, Lesson 4 for help)

Paragraph 2: Explain how the qualities or values of the younger brothers in the stories are different from those of their older brothers. Use details from the stories to contrast the character traits and points of view of the younger brothers with those of their older brothers. (See Unit 10, Lesson 4 for help)

Paragraph 3: Explain what you think the authors want readers to learn from the younger brothers in the stories. Tell how the plot events and the authors’ use of language and literary devices support your ideas. End your paragraph with a sentence that restates the lesson or values that the characters in the stories convey to the readers. (See Unit 10, Lesson 5 for help)

1 answer

Paragraph 1: The Swallow and the Pumpkinseed and Don't Count Your Chickens are two fascinating tales with powerful life lessons at their core. The main characters in The Swallow and the Pumpkinseed are two brothers, Swallow and Pumpkinseed, while in Don't Count Your Chickens, the story revolves around a wise mother hen and her three sons, the youngest of whom is known as Little Chick. Both stories emphasize the importance of wisdom, knowledge, and careful decision-making through the actions of the younger brothers, helping readers to understand the value of effective problem-solving and the power of learning from others.

Paragraph 2: A striking difference between the younger brothers and their older siblings are their distinct values and qualities. In The Swallow and the Pumpkinseed, the elder brother, Pumpkinseed, initially dismisses Swallow's knowledge and wisdom, arrogantly assuming superiority over his younger sibling. However, as the story unfolds, readers see Swallow demonstrate resourcefulness and intelligence, ultimately saving their lives. Similarly, in Don't Count Your Chickens, Little Chick is seen as humble and curious compared to his two older brothers, who prefer to rely on their physical strength and are quick to criticize their youngest sibling. In both cases, the younger brothers possess a unique blend of humility, intelligence, and openness to learning, which helps them navigate challenges and lead their respective families to successful outcomes.

Paragraph 3: The authors of these stories want readers to understand that wisdom, knowledge, and a willingness to learn are essential characteristics that can lead individuals to succeed in life. Through various plot events and the use of language and literary devices, the authors effectively convey their messages to the audience. For example, in The Swallow and the Pumpkinseed, Swallow's ability to understand the world around him is what ultimately saves his family, reinforcing the importance of knowledge and thinking critically. In Don't Count Your Chickens, Little Chick exemplifies the power of creativity and adaptability, eventually earning the admiration of his older brothers. Both younger siblings show that by embracing these values and lessons, they are capable of achieving great feats and rising above challenging situations, ultimately imparting this wisdom to readers.