Directions: In unit 10, lessons 1-5 you learned about analyzing literary texts. For this portfolio, you will write an analysis of The Swallow and the Pumpkinseed and Don’t Count Your Chickens. In many folktales, some characters are rewarded for their positive qualities or values. Other characters are punished or do not have success due to their negative qualities or values. The characters and events teach the reader a lesson about life. Please read the texts carefully before you begin the assignment.
Your portfolio must include 3 paragraphs and the following: (Use this graphic organizer to assist you in starting this assignment)
Paragraph 1: Write an intro paragraph that identifies the main characters in The Swallow and the Pumpkinseed and Don’t Count Your Chickens. Tell what life lesson or important values the younger brothers in the two stories help the readers to understand. (See Unit 10, Lesson 4 for help)
Paragraph 2: Explain how the qualities or values of the younger brothers in the stories are different from those of their older brothers. Use details from the stories to contrast the character traits and points of view of the younger brothers with those of their older brothers. (See Unit 10, Lesson 4 for help)
Paragraph 3: Explain what you think the authors want readers to learn from the younger brothers in the stories. Tell how the plot events and the authors’ use of language and literary devices support your ideas. End your paragraph with a sentence that restates the lesson or values that the characters in the stories convey to the readers. (See Unit 10, Lesson 5 for help)
(In kids words)
In The Swallow and the Pumpkinseed, the main characters are the younger brothers who exhibit positive qualities such as kindness, generosity, and humility. These qualities help the readers understand the importance of being humble and treating others with kindness, even in difficult situations. Similarly, in Don't Count Your Chickens, the younger brothers are also kind and brave, teaching readers about the value of perseverance and never giving up on their dreams.
The qualities of the younger brothers in the stories contrast starkly with those of their older brothers. While the younger brothers display qualities of humility and kindness, the older brothers are often arrogant, selfish, and greedy. For example, in The Swallow and the Pumpkinseed, the older brother is envious of his younger brother's success and refuses to share his fortune with others. This contrast highlights the importance of humility and generosity over selfishness and greed.
Through the younger brothers in the stories, the authors convey the lesson that kindness, humility, and perseverance are important values that lead to success and happiness in life. The plot events in both stories show how the younger brothers' positive qualities help them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. The authors use language and literary devices to emphasize the importance of these values, ultimately leaving readers with the message that being kind, humble, and persevering in the face of challenges will lead to a fulfilling and successful life.