Reading
A tortoise had two geese friends. When their lake dried up, the geese found a plan. The tortoise would hold a stick in his mouth while the geese carried the ends. The only rule was that the tortoise must not speak.
As they flew, people below laughed and shouted. The tortoise became angry and opened his mouth to answer. He fell because he forgot the advice that could save him.
This story teaches that words have power. A leader knows when to speak and when silence is wiser.
Vocabulary
- self-control
- advice
- silence
- warning
- consequence
Discussion Questions
- Why did the tortoise fail?
- When is silence helpful?
- How can students control the urge to interrupt?
Leadership Takeaway
Self-Control: Practice listening for one full minute before responding.