Exploring characterisation in 'Greenling' | Starter Quiz | Oak National Academy

Which pet do the Barleycorn's own?

• a dog

• a cat

• a mouse

• a rabbit

Answer explanation

The Barleycorn's dog interacts with the Greenling in different ways throughout the text.

What is Mrs. Barleycorn's initial reaction to the Greenling?

• She is grateful that her husband found the Greenling.

• She says that the Greenling should be returned to the wild.

• She does not care whether her husband looks after the Greenling or not.

Answer explanation

Mrs. Barleycorn's thoughts about the Greenling change as the story develops.

Inference means to...

• find key details or information in the text and extract them.

• predict what might happen from what we have already read.

• use clues from within the text to draw conclusions.

Answer explanation

Readers can infer a character's emotions and traits by looking at their appearance, the words they use, the actions they perform and how they are depicted.

How might the following person be feeling?

• angry

• worried

• excited

Answer explanation

If someone is grinning, with wide eyes, they might be excited to do something.

How might the following person be feeling?

• happy

• sad

• jealous

Answer explanation

If someone is crying, with their hands raised towards their face, they might be upset.

How does Mr. Barleycorn show he cares for the Greenling?

• He waters the Greenling.

• He leaves the Greenling alone.

• He brings the Greenling inside to keep it safe.

• He shouts at the Greenling

Answer explanation

Mr. Barleycorn acts like a father figure to the Greenling, helping it grow.