Preview
Copywork
About This Passage
Charlotte articulates the strategic logic of her campaign. The passage hinges on the rhetorical contrast between 'noble qualities' and 'tastiness' — a contrast worth transcribing word by word because it distills the entire chapter's argument about how language steers perception.
Couldn't be worse. We don't want Zuckerman to think Wilbur is crunchy. He might start thinking about crisp, crunchy bacon and tasty ham. That would put ideas into his head. We must advertise Wilbur's ...
Full copywork activity with handwriting lines available in the complete study guide.
Discussion Questions
Narration Prompt
Retell Chapter 13 in six to eight sentences. Include the engineering of Charlotte's web, Templeton's three trips to the dump, Mr. Zuckerman's response, Wilbur's acrobatic audition, and the closing lullaby.
Discussion Questions
- Charlotte chooses dry thread over sticky thread because 'every bug that comes along will get stuck in it and spoil the effect.' What does this technical decision reveal about how Charlotte now understands the difference between being a spider and being a writer?
- Templeton serves as the unwilling courier of language in this chapter — fetching 'Crunchy,' 'Pre-shrunk,' and 'With New Radiant Action.' What is E.B. White suggesting about the relationship between commerce, advertising, and the words we use to describe living things?
+ 3 more questions in the complete study guide
Vocabulary Builder
Item 1
To present something publicly in a way designed to attract attention or recommendation.
Item 2
Possessing admirable moral qualities; of high character or birth.
Item 3
Emitting light or warmth; shining brilliantly or glowing with health and joy.
+ 5 more vocabulary words in the complete study guide
Critical Thinking
+ 6 more questions in the complete study guide
Get the complete study guide — free
Sign up and get your first book with every chapter included. Copywork, discussion questions, vocabulary, and critical thinking.
Sign up free