Exploring Folktales
A Grade 4 ELA worksheet to explore the characteristics of folktales through reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing prompts.
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Exploring Folktales
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Read the instructions carefully for each section and answer all questions to the best of your ability.
The Tortoise and the Hare
Once upon a time, a boastful Hare always bragged about how fast he could run. He often made fun of the slow Tortoise. One day, the Tortoise grew tired of the Hare's boasting and challenged him to a race.
The Hare laughed and accepted, confident he would win easily. The other animals gathered to watch. When the race began, the Hare shot off like an arrow, leaving the Tortoise far behind. He ran so far ahead that he decided to take a nap under a shady tree, thinking he had plenty of time.
Meanwhile, the Tortoise continued to plod along, step by slow step, never stopping. He knew he wasn't fast, but he was determined. He kept his eyes on the finish line and moved at a steady pace.
When the Hare finally woke up, he saw the Tortoise just about to cross the finish line! He jumped up and sprinted as fast as he could, but it was too late. The Tortoise had crossed the finish line and won the race.
The Hare learned a valuable lesson that day: slow and steady wins the race.
1. What is the main characteristic of the Hare in the story?
Humble
Boastful
Shy
Lazy
2. What lesson does the Hare learn at the end of the story?
Being fast is most important.
It's good to take naps.
Slow and steady wins the race.
Never challenge anyone.
Complete the sentences using words from the story.
1. The Hare was very about his speed.
2. The Tortoise was to reach the finish line.
3. The Hare took a during the race.
1. What is a folktale? Explain in your own words.
2. Can you think of another folktale you have heard? Briefly describe it.
Read each statement and circle True or False.
1. Folktales are usually very new stories.
True
False
2. Folktales often teach a lesson or moral.
True
False
Write a short folktale about an animal that learns an important lesson. Remember to include a clear beginning, middle, and end, and a moral at the end.