Comprehension Questions on 'Sick' by Shel Silverstein

Front

Who is the main character in the poem "Sick" by Shel Silverstein?

Back

Peggy Ann McKay

Answer explanation

The main character in Shel Silverstein's poem "Sick" is Peggy Ann McKay. She pretends to be ill to avoid going to school, showcasing her imaginative excuses and playful nature.

Front

According to the poem, which of the following is NOT mentioned as one of Peggy Ann McKay's complaints? Options: Broken arm, Measles, Mumps, Chicken pox

Back

Broken arm

Answer explanation

In the poem, Peggy Ann McKay lists various ailments, but a broken arm is not one of her complaints. The other options—measles, mumps, and chicken pox—are explicitly mentioned, making 'broken arm' the correct answer.

Front

What does Peggy Ann McKay claim about her tonsils in the poem?

Back

They are as big as rocks

Answer explanation

In the poem, Peggy Ann McKay humorously exaggerates her tonsils, claiming they are 'as big as rocks,' highlighting her feelings of illness and reluctance to go to school.

Front

Why does Peggy Ann McKay say she cannot go to school?

Back

She is feeling very sick with many symptoms

Answer explanation

Peggy Ann McKay claims she cannot go to school because she is feeling very sick with many symptoms, which is the primary reason for her absence.

Front

Based on the poem, what can you infer about Peggy Ann McKay's attitude toward going to school?

Back

She is trying to avoid going to school by pretending to be sick

Answer explanation

Peggy Ann McKay's attitude toward school is negative, as she pretends to be sick to avoid going. This indicates she is trying to escape the responsibilities of school rather than expressing excitement or love for it.

Front

What does the speaker claim is wrong with their left leg?

Back

It is broken.

Answer explanation

The speaker claims their left leg is broken, indicating a serious injury. This rules out other options like sprained, swollen, or missing, making 'It is broken' the correct choice.

Front

According to the poem, what happens to the speaker's hips when they move their chin?

Back

Their hips hurt.

Answer explanation

In the poem, the speaker describes a physical reaction where their hips hurt when they move their chin, indicating discomfort rather than any positive or neutral response.

Front

Which body part does the speaker say is caving in?

Back

Belly button

Answer explanation

The speaker specifically mentions that the 'belly button' is caving in, making it the correct answer. The other options, 'elbow', 'neck', and 'toe', are not referenced in this context.

Front

What does the speaker say about their ankle?

Back

It is sprained.

Answer explanation

The speaker mentions that their ankle is sprained, indicating an injury that causes pain and swelling, but does not suggest it is broken, swollen, or missing.

Front

What does the speaker say happens each time it rains?

Back

Their 'pendix pains.

Answer explanation

The speaker mentions that each time it rains, their 'pendix pains' occur, indicating a specific physical reaction to the weather. This makes 'pendix pains' the correct answer, as it directly relates to the speaker's experience.