Secret Garden Quick Check

See how much you remember about Gran's new garden and helping others.

Comprehension

1. Why was Gran worried about her new garden?

She thought the garden was too big to manage. She wanted to build a swimming pool. She disliked flowers.

2. What did Toby do first to help Gran?

He listened carefully to what she wanted. He dug up the whole garden. He bought lots of expensive plants.

3. Why did Toby suggest planning before planting?

To finish quickly. So the garden suited Gran's needs. Because plants only grow in straight lines.

4. Why did the children choose a winding path?

It was shorter. It looked more natural and interesting. It was easier to build.

5. What was one important message of the story?

Buy everything at once. Older people should do everything themselves. Working together can solve problems.

The quiz questions below use this short piece from the story:

“Mary looked across Gran's long garden.”

“We could make it into a peaceful place for people and wildlife,” she said.

Gran smiled.

“Let's make a plan before we start,” she replied.

6. “Mary looked across Gran's long garden.” Which is the verb?

Mary looked garden

7. “Gran's long garden.” Which word is an adjective?

garden long Gran's

8. “A peaceful place.” Which word is the adjective?

place could peaceful

This question is not scored. If you were helping an older neighbour improve their garden, what would you do first?

Talk to them and find out what they would like. Buy lots of expensive plants. Dig everything up straight away. Design your own idea.

There is no single right answer. The best ideas usually begin by listening carefully to what someone needs before trying to solve the problem.