Name ______________________ Class ___________ Date ___________

The Flea and the Ox

Worksheet · Grades 2–8

Comprehension Questions

  1. What question does the flea ask the ox?
  2. How does the ox respond to the flea's question about why he serves humans?
  3. What does the flea feel about the way humans treat the ox?
  4. What is the main theme or moral of the story?
  5. How does the flea’s perspective on human treatment differ from the ox’s perspective?

Vocabulary Exercise

Match the words from the left column with their correct meanings in the right column.

WordMeaning
Aila. To feel grateful or appreciative
Mercilesslyb. To cause pain or suffering
Gratitudec. Without compassion or pity
Slaveryd. A condition of being forced to work for others
Pate. A gentle stroke or touch

Writing/Reflection Task

Reflect on the story and answer the following questions:

  1. What lesson do you think the author wants to convey through the interactions between the flea and the ox?
  2. Have you ever felt like the flea or the ox in a situation? Explain your experience.
  3. How can this story be applied to our lives today?

Feel free to share your thoughts with a partner or in a group discussion!

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