Understanding Themes in Poetry

In 'Birdfoot's Grandpa' by Joseph Bruchac, an old man repeatedly stops his car to save toads from being blinded by headlights. Despite the narrator's insistence that they cannot save all the toads and should move on, the old man, undeterred by the rain, continues his efforts. He believes that the toads have their own destinations, highlighting a theme of empathy and respect for all life.

What action does the old man repeatedly take in the poem?

• He stops to pick flowers.

• He stops to save small toads.

• He stops to take photographs.

• He stops to check the car.

What is the narrator's main concern during the journey?

• The rain is too heavy.

• They are running out of gas.

• They have places to go.

• The car is overheating.

How does the old man respond to the narrator's insistence to move on?

• He agrees and returns to the car.

• He smiles and continues saving toads.

• He ignores the narrator.

• He argues with the narrator.

What does the old man's action symbolize in the poem?

• Indifference to nature.

• Desire for adventure.

• Empathy and respect for all creatures.

• Apathy towards life.

What does the old man imply about the toads?

• They are lost.

• They are dangerous.

• They have their own destinations.

• They are a nuisance.