Reading Comprehension Practice Test with Answers | Short Story #1 (Elementary/Pre-Intermediate)

Summary

In this engaging video from Sparkle English, viewers are guided through a reading comprehension exercise centered on the story 'Old Sultan' by the Brothers Grimm. The narrative follows Sultan, a loyal but aging dog, whose life is threatened by his shepherd owner. Through a clever plan devised with the help of a wolf, Sultan pretends to save the shepherd's child, ultimately securing his safety and a comfortable life. The video combines storytelling with interactive questions, encouraging viewers to enhance their English skills while reflecting on themes of loyalty, resourcefulness, and gratitude.

Takeaways

• 😀 The channel *Sparkle English* focuses on helping viewers improve their English skills through engaging exercises.
• 📖 The reading comprehension exercise is based on the short story *Old Sultan* by the Brothers Grimm.
• 🐶 Sultan, the main character, is a faithful dog who has grown old and lost his teeth.
• 💔 The shepherd considers shooting Sultan because he feels the dog is no longer useful.
• 👩‍🌾 Sultan's wife advocates for the dog's life, emphasizing his years of loyal service.
• 😟 Sultan overhears the plan to shoot him and seeks help from his friend, the wolf.
• 🧠 The wolf devises a plan for Sultan to pretend to rescue the shepherd's child.
• 🚸 The shepherd and his wife take their child to the fields each morning, providing context for the rescue plan.
• 👏 The plan succeeds, and the shepherd is grateful to Sultan for saving his child, allowing the dog to live comfortably.
• 🎉 The story concludes with Sultan being appreciated and well cared for by the shepherd and his family.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the story 'Old Sultan'?

The main theme of the story is loyalty and the bond between a master and his pet, showcasing how loyalty is rewarded and how one should appreciate those who have served them well.

Why does the shepherd decide to shoot Sultan?

The shepherd decides to shoot Sultan because he believes that Sultan is no longer useful to him due to his old age and loss of teeth.

What argument does the shepherd's wife present to save Sultan?

The shepherd's wife argues that Sultan has served them faithfully for many years and deserves to live out his days in comfort, rather than being killed.

How does Sultan learn about the shepherd's plan to shoot him?

Sultan overhears the conversation between the shepherd and his wife about the plan to shoot him, which frightens him greatly.

What solution does the wolf offer Sultan?

The wolf offers Sultan a plan to pretend to rescue the shepherd's child from him, suggesting that this will make the shepherd grateful and ensure Sultan's safety.

What role does the child play in the wolf's plan?

The child plays a crucial role in the wolf's plan, as Sultan is to pretend to save the child from the wolf, which will demonstrate his loyalty and worth to the shepherd.

What happens when Sultan successfully rescues the child?

When Sultan successfully rescues the child, the shepherd praises him for saving his child from the wolf and promises to take care of him for the rest of his life.

How does Sultan's fate change by the end of the story?

By the end of the story, Sultan's fate changes for the better as he is no longer seen as useless; instead, he is appreciated and promised a comfortable life.

What message does the story convey about aging and usefulness?

The story conveys that even as one ages and may lose their physical abilities, their past loyalty and service should still be valued and respected.

What does the story suggest about friendship and support?

The story suggests that friendship and support are vital, as demonstrated by the wolf's willingness to help Sultan and provide him with a plan to save his life.