The Trumpet of the Swan

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1970

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Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Multiple Choice

1. C (Various chapters)

2. B (Various chapters)

3. A (Various chapters)

4. D (Various chapters)

5. C (Various chapters)

6. A (Various chapters)

7. B (Various chapters)

8. C (Various chapters)

9. D (Various chapters)

10. A (Various chapters)

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Long Answer

1. Sam feels an inherent obligation and desire to help animals in natural environments. For example, Sam first protects the swan family by deterring the fox who plans to attack the pen. Later, Sam develops strategies to help Louis communicate with those around him. Additionally, Sam aids a skunk by removing a can that was stuck on its head. Sam finds a job he enjoys working at the Philadelphia Zoo. (Various chapters)

2. When Louis first understands his disability, he is afraid because of the differences between himself and his siblings. This perspective later shifts to one of sadness when he learns he is unable to communicate with Serena. Louis overcomes these and other challenges by learning to communicate with humans and through his trumpet. (Various chapters)