Abebe and the English boys

The story links schooling with later possibilities, while showing Abebe acting resourcefully before he has learned much English.

The repeated damage to the crop and the father and son’s growing anger are part of the conflict; the story resolves it without physical confrontation.

What do you think the boys understood from Abebe’s actions, even though he did not know the English words he wanted to say?

Pause at the moment Abebe calls out the letters and invite the reader to infer what the boys might understand; then compare that idea with what happens next.