Benny did not feel like going to school. He did not sleep well, because he played video games the previous night, and he was tired. His mom asked him a few times to stop playing and go to bed, but he did not listen. The next morning he begged his mom to stay at home. Benny's mom did not want to hear any of his stories, but she could see that he was really tired. She told him:
"Benny, it is time that you take responsibility for your actions. It is your decision if you want to go to school or stay at home, but if you decide to stay, you have to do a few chores for me."
Benny was not happy about doing chores, but he knew he had no choice. Anything was better than going to school! He had his whole day planned out perfectly and if he finished the chores quickly, he would be able to play video games for the rest of the day.
While they sat at the breakfast table his mom made him a list of things that he had to complete before he was allowed to play any games.
Benny looked at the list. It was a very long list. He didn't expect to be that busy and all he really wanted to do, was to play video games! He looked a bit upset, but his mom told him that she wanted everything done before lunch, because he had to go to town with her in the afternoon.
Benny finished everything as quickly a possible, and just when he was about to sit down in front of the television his mom called him to go to town. Benny was bored the whole time they were in town, and he started missing his friends.
Benny's mom knew exactly what she was doing, and after keeping Benny busy for the whole afternoon, they finally drove home.
Benny was so tired he couldn't keep his eyes open. His dad came to fetch him in the car, and his mom just winked at his dad.
"Poor baby, I think he wished that he'd rather went to school." said Benny's mom.
The next morning bright and early Benny was ready to go back to school. His dad just smiled at his mom and they knew that he had learned his lesson. Benny never ever played truant again!
1. Why was Benny so tired?
2. Why did Benny want to stay at home?
3. Why was Benny not happy about the chores?
4. Why do you think Benny's mom was trying to make him tired?
5. Do you think that Benny learned his lesson? Give a reason why you say yes/no.
