“Dad and the Cat and the Tree” by Kit Wright

Introduction:

• The poem humorously narrates the story of Dad’s attempts to rescue a cat stuck in a tree, highlighting his lack of climbing skills.

Key Points:

1. Dad’s Confident Approach:

   • Dad confidently declares that he will rescue the cat stuck in the tree.
   • Despite warnings from Mum about the wobbly and tall tree, Dad is determined to show off his climbing skills.

2. Dad’s Failed Attempts:

   • Dad’s first attempt involves using a ladder, but it slips, causing him to fall into the flower bed.
   • Undeterred, he proceeds to Plan B, trying to climb the tree directly. However, he falls when the branch breaks.
   • Dad then tries Plan C, climbing the garden wall, which he successfully accomplishes without falling.

3. The Unfortunate Landing:

   • Despite successfully reaching the top of the garden wall, Dad’s final leap lands him directly on top of the cat, which causes the cat to jump to the ground safely.

4. The Humorous Twist:

   • While the cat is safe on the ground, Dad finds himself stuck in the tree, unable to climb down.
   • The poem concludes with Dad still stuck in the tree while the cat is safe and smug on the ground.

Discussion Questions:

1. Is Dad a good climber? What were his plans?:

   • Dad’s attempts to rescue the cat show that he is not a skilled climber.
   • His plans involve using a ladder, climbing the tree directly, and then climbing the garden wall. However, all of his attempts end in failure.

2. How would you help the cat stuck in the tree?:

   • Students can discuss safe and practical ways to rescue a cat stuck in a tree, such as calling a professional animal rescue service or using a ladder with someone supporting the base.

Extension Activity:

• Writing a Humorous Rescue Story:
  • Encourage students to write their own humorous story or poem about a failed rescue attempt. They can use the structure of the poem “Dad and the Cat and the Tree” as inspiration but create their own unique characters and situations.