Exploring the story 'Greenling' | Exit Quiz | Oak National Academy

Match the keywords to the definition.

• moral

• a vocabulary activity designed to encourage mind-mapping & creativity

• fable

• a lesson that can be learnt from a story or experience

• word explosion

• a short story, typically with animals as characters conveying a moral

Answer explanation

Fables belong to the genre of traditional tales and folklore. They usually explain the creation of the world, natural events and the origins of rituals or customs.

What are vignettes?

• a short promotional description of a text, located on the back cover

• the elements around a book, including its cover, title and blurb

• small, focused illustrations that capture a scene or specific moment

Answer explanation

Vignettes might depict subtle hints or clues that contribute to the overall mystery and magic of the story.

True or False? Mrs. Barleycorn is happy her husband brought home the Greenling.

Answer explanation

Mrs. Barleycorn does not think that Mr. Barleycorn should have picked up the Greenling. She says he should return it.

Which of the following fruits and vegetables has the Greenling provided for the Barleycorns?

• peppers

• sweet potatoes

• spring onions

• rice

Answer explanation

The Greenling provides enough food for the Barleycorns and their community to use throughout the winter months.

True or false? Words can have more than one appropriate definition.

Answer explanation

In 'Greenling', 'wild' can refer to the natural world and also the character traits of the Greenling itself.

Sequence the following events in chronological order.

• Mr. Barleycorn discovers the Greenling.

• The Greenling is planted in soil.

• The Barleycorn's home starts to be taken over by the natural world.

• Crops and plants are provided for the Barleycorns to use.

• The Greenling leaves at the end of the summer.

Answer explanation

The story invites readers to consider what the natural world can provide for humans and how we might live more sustainably.