Chapter 21 · Charlotte's Web

Copywork

"You have been my friend," replied Charlotte. That in itself is a tremendous thing.

Read the passage aloud. What does the word "tremendous" make you think about Charlotte's idea of friendship?

Narration Tell what happened from Wilbur's talk with Charlotte to the end of the chapter, in order. Slow down at what Wilbur does with the egg sac.

Charlotte tells Wilbur, "Come now, let's not make a scene." Why does she say that? What makes you think so? Character
Wilbur says he would gladly give his life for Charlotte. Does he mean it? What makes you think so? Moral reasoning
Templeton complains that nobody cares anything about old Templeton. How does he sound, and what tells you? Tone
Wilbur promises Templeton the first pick from the trough. Is that a fair price for the egg sac? Why or why not? Theme
The chapter ends with "No one was with her when she died." Why might the author end it that way? Author's choice

Make a Connection Tell about a time you said thank you to a friend, and what you wished you could say.

friend: You have been my friend, Someone you like and trust.
tremendous: That in itself is a tremendous thing. Very big and important.
desolation: He heaved and grunted with desolation. Deep, lonely sadness.
ridiculous: Don't be ridiculous, So silly it makes no sense.
desperation: said Wilbur in desperation, A wild feeling of having no choice.
mimicked: he mimicked. Copied how someone speaks, to tease.
forlorn: The sheds and buildings were empty and forlorn. Sad and left alone.
deserted: The Fair Grounds were soon deserted. Left empty.

Wilbur remembers Charlotte's egg sac and decides to take it along. What does that show about him? Give two reasons from the chapter.
Wilbur winks at Charlotte as he is shoved into the crate. What does that show about their friendship? Give two reasons from the chapter.
Wilbur says, "To think that when I first met you I thought you were cruel and bloodthirsty!" How does he see Charlotte now? Give two reasons from the chapter.