"The Legend of the Cedar Tree" Independent Practice

Read these sentences from the passage.

But as the weeks went on, and the people had to work and toil continuously in the fields, their crops grew in such abundance that they could scarcely keep up. And because there was only daylight, it was always hot, so hot that sleep was impossible. The people, already tired from long hours of work, became short tempered and irritable. Everyone was on edge.

What does the phrase "on edge" mean in the last sentence?

• touchy and grumpy

• hot and sweaty

• worried and scared

• tired and overworked

Read these sentences from the passage.

The Ouga restored day and night, each day forming a perfect boundary of light and darkness. Soon the weather became more pleasant and crops began to grow again. People could hunt and there was plenty to eat. They were happy and humbled and vowed never again to take their many blessings for granted.

What does this event suggest about the people?

• They blame the Ouga for their problems.

• They are able to learn from their mistakes.

• They think the Ouga is wise and kind.

• They only care about getting food for themselves.

Which of the following statements best expresses the theme of the passage?

• People usually make poor choices.

• When there is balance in life, there is harmony.

• Those who came before should be remembered.

• Without darkness and light, crops cannot grow.

Which of these describes the most important method the author uses to develop the theme?

• by showing the Ouga as an all-powerful being.

• by closing the story with details about the cedar tree.

• by emphasizing how much the Ouga loves the people and wants to please them.

• by describing what happens when there is only night and when there is only day.

How does the author contrast the Ouga's point of view with the point of view of the people?

• by showing how much the Ouga loved the people.

• by telling what the people wanted to Ouga to do for them.

• by explaining the Ouga's doubts about granting the people's wishes.

• by describing what happens when the Ouga does as the people ask.

Which of these details from the passage best shows that the people are sorry for the demands they made to the Ouga?

• They grow hungry and weak from the lack of food.

• They have to constantly gather wood for fires.

• They beg the Ouga for forgiveness.

• They hope the Ouga will hear their cries.