Before first light came to the land, all of the animals of the forest gathered around the pond. As they waited for Beaver and Turtle to arrive, many chose sides. Most of the smaller animals, such as Mouse, Chipmunk, and Rabbit, sided with Turtle. Most of the bigger animals, such as Wolf, Moose, and Bear, sided with Beaver.
As they waited, they began to sing:
Turtle! Beaver! Turtle! Beaver! Turtle! Beaver!
They sang even louder when Beaver came swimming over from his lodge and Turtle popped up from under the water.
Turtle! Beaver! Turtle! Beaver! Turtle! Beaver!
Turtle and Beaver took their positions on the shore.
Bear lifted his big paw in the air. “On your mark . . . get set . . . GO!”
Comprehension Questions
1. Who is competing in the race?
A. Bear and Moose
B. Mouse and Chipmunk
C. Turtle and Beaver
2. Why are Mouse, Chipmunk and Rabbit cheering for Turtle?
A. Because they think that Turtle is nicer.
B. Because they don't like Beaver.
C. Because turtle is smaller and less powerful than Beaver.
A. Because they think that Turtle is nicer.
B. Because they don't like Beaver.
C. Because turtle is smaller and less powerful than Beaver.
Your Thoughts
3. Did you like this excerpt? Why or why not?
Vocabulary
4. List any vocabulary words below.