The Giving Tree: Comprehension Questions

The story of 'The Giving Tree' by Shel Silverstein follows the relationship between a tree and a boy. As a child, the boy enjoys playing with the tree, which makes them both happy. As he grows older, the boy seeks material possessions and the tree selflessly provides apples, branches, and its trunk to fulfill his needs. Eventually, the boy returns as an old man, seeking only a place to rest, and the tree, now a stump, offers him a seat. The narrative explores themes of selflessness, the passage of time, and the changing nature of relationships.

What did the boy do with the tree's leaves?

• He sold them.

• He built a house.

• He made a fire.

• He made crowns.

Why did the boy want money?

• To pay for school.

• To buy things and have fun.

• To buy a car.

• To travel the world.

What did the tree offer the boy to help him get money?

• Its apples.

• Its branches.

• Its trunk.

• Its leaves.

What did the boy want after he returned for the second time?

• A house.

• A job.

• A car.

• A boat.

How did the tree help the boy build a house?

• By giving its leaves.

• By giving its apples.

• By giving its trunk.

• By giving its branches.

What did the boy want when he returned for the third time?

• A boat.

• A house.

• A car.

• A job.

What did the tree offer to make a boat?

• Its branches.

• Its leaves.

• Its trunk.

• Its apples.

What was left of the tree after the boy made a boat?

• Leaves.

• Branches.

• A trunk.

• A stump.

What did the boy need when he returned as an old man?

• A new boat.

• More money.

• A new house.

• A place to rest.

How did the tree make the boy happy in the end?

• By offering a place to sit and rest.

• By giving him money.

• By giving him apples.

• By offering its branches.