Chapter 16 · Charlotte's Web

Copywork

"I'm staying right here," grumbled the rat. "I haven't the slightest interest in fairs."

Read the passage aloud the way Templeton might say it. What does the word "grumbled" tell you?

Discussion

Narration Tell what happened from the night before the Fair to the truck driving away, in order. Slow down at the moment Wilbur hears Mr. Arable's words.

Mrs. Zuckerman gives Wilbur a buttermilk bath, and Mr. Zuckerman says, "Edith, you're crazy." Who is right about the bath? What makes you think so? Character
The old sheep tells Wilbur to struggle when the men put him in the crate. Is that good advice? Why or why not? Moral reasoning
Under the straw, Templeton thinks, "What fantastic creatures boys are!" How does he sound? What tells you? Tone
Mr. Arable says Wilbur will make "some extra good ham and bacon." Why do you think the author puts that line right at the moment when Wilbur looks most radiant? Author's choice

Make a Connection Tell about a time you were talked into something and found out it was not what you expected.

Vocabulary

grumbled: grumbled the rat. Complained in a low, cross voice.
interest: I haven't the slightest interest in fairs. A wish to know or take part.
occasion: for the occasion. A special event.
paradise: A fair is a rat's paradise. A perfect place.
tempts: what you say tempts me. Makes you want to do something.
surpass: will surpass your wildest dreams. To be better than.
stowaways: and Two Stowaways Secret passengers.
resist: Pigs always resist To push back and not give in.
bewitched: you were bewitched. Under a magic spell.

Critical thinking

Charlotte says, "I shall go, too." What does that show about her? Give two reasons from the chapter.
The geese cheer many times in this chapter. What does that show about the geese? Give two reasons.
Avery climbs into the crate and Wilbur faints. What does this scene show about the people? Give two reasons.