What is the main idea of the fable?

The gecko learns that real persistence may require changing a failed method while keeping the underlying goal. (The story contrasts loyalty to a goal with unnecessary loyalty to one ineffective approach.)

Why does the ant ask what persistence means?

The question helps the gecko separate his goal from the repeated leap. (The gecko has confused repeated effort with progress toward food, and the ant exposes that difference.)

What does “persistent” mean?

continuing effort despite difficulty (The gecko continues trying after each collision, which demonstrates persistent effort.)

Where does the gecko find a way outside?

at an open window (The gecko follows the wall until reaching an open window.)

The Gecko and the Glass Wall: Level 2 Reading Comprehension Questions

A gecko saw a bright moth resting beyond a clear wall. He leaped straight toward it and struck the glass. Again he leaped. Again the wall stopped him. “You are very persistent,” said an ant walking along the floor. The gecko puffed with pride and tried a higher leap. The result was the same.

The ant touched the edge of the glass. “Does persistence mean repeating the leap, or reaching the moth?”

The gecko stopped. He followed the wall until he found an open window. By then the moth had flown, but a cloud of gnats circled the outside lamp. The gecko ate well.

The next night, he returned to the window instead of the glass. He had not surrendered the goal of finding food. He had surrendered one failed method. Effort became useful when observation was allowed to change its direction.

Comprehension questions