Page 7 - Reading and Writing 6

Listen and Read

The Duck and the Kangaroo

-I- -III-
Said the Duck to the Kangaroo, Said the Kangaroo to the Duck,

“Good gracious! How high you can hop! “This requires a little reflection;
Over the fields and the water too, Perhaps it might bring me luck,
It’s as if you never would stop! And I have but one objection,
My life is a bore in this nasty pond, Which is – and forgive me for being so bold –

And I long to go out in the world beyond! That your feet are unpleasantly wet and cold,
I wish I could hop like you!” And would probably give me the flu!”

Said the Kangaroo.
-II-

“Please give me a ride on your back!” -IV-
Said the Duck to the Kangaroo. Said the Duck, “As I sat on the rocks,
“I’d sit still, and say nothing but ‘Quack,’ I have thought over that completely,

The whole of the long day through! And I bought four pairs of worsted socks,
We’d go to the Dee, and the Jelly Bo Lee, Which fit my web-feet neatly.
Over the land, and over the sea; And to keep out the cold, I’ve bought a cloak,

Please give me a ride! O please do!” Though pale, I’ll wear it daily, no joke,
Said the Duck to the Kangaroo. All to follow my own dear true
Love for a hopping Kangaroo!”

Edward Lear

After You Read

1 Work with a partner and discuss the following questions.

1 According to the passage, why does the duck want the kangaroo to take her
with him?

2 What is his only problem? How do they solve it?

5