Reading - Saint Francis of Assisi

Read the text and complete the activities below.

Saint Francis of Assisi is one of the most famous historical figures in the world. He was born in Italy in 1181 to a wealthy family. As a young man, he loved fine clothes, parties, and a comfortable lifestyle. However, after experiencing the horrors of war as a soldier and later falling seriously ill, his perspective on life completely changed. He decided to leave his rich lifestyle behind, give all his money to the poor, and live a life of peace and simplicity.

Francis is especially remembered for his deep love of nature and animals. He believed that all creatures, big and small, were his brothers and sisters. There are many famous stories about his special connection with animals. For example, legend says he once preached a sermon to a flock of birds, and he even convinced a dangerous wolf to stop attacking a local village. Because of his great respect for the natural world, he is known today as the patron saint of animals and the environment.

During his life, Francis traveled across Italy to share his message of peace, kindness, and humility. He founded a religious group called the Franciscan Order, which focused on helping others and living without personal possessions. Even though he died in 1226, his legacy continues to inspire millions of people around the world to respect nature, love animals, and care for those in need.

ACTIVITIES

Exercise 1: Multiple Choice

Choose the best answer for each question based on the text.

1. What kind of background did Saint Francis come from?

A) A very poor family B) A wealthy family C) A family of farmers D) A family of teachers

2. What events caused Francis to change his lifestyle?

A) He found a new job and moved away. B) He read a special book about nature. C) He experienced war and a serious illness. D) He wanted to travel the world with his friends.

3. How did Francis view animals?

A) As dangerous creatures to avoid B) As tools to help with farming C) As pets to keep indoors D) As his brothers and sisters

4. What did Francis do to a dangerous wolf, according to the text?

A) He chased the wolf away from the village. B) He built a tall fence to keep the wolf out. C) He convinced the wolf to stop attacking the village. D) He gave the wolf to a poor family.

5. What was the main focus of the Franciscan Order?

A) Helping others and living simply B) Building large and expensive churches C) Making money and buying land D) Selling fine clothes to the rich

Exercise 2: True, False, or Not Given

Read the statements and decide if they are True, False, or Not Given in the text.

1. Francis was born into a poor family in Italy.

True False Not Given

2. After falling ill, Francis decided to give his money to the poor.

True False Not Given

3. Francis had a pet dog that traveled with him everywhere.

True False Not Given

4. People believe that Francis once spoke to a flock of birds.

True False Not Given

5. The Franciscan Order was famous for selling personal possessions.

True False Not Given

Exercise 3: Gap Fill

Complete the sentences using the words in the box.

wealthy legacy completely creatures peace

1. As a young man, Francis lived with a family in Italy.

2. After experiencing war, his perspective on life changed .

3. Francis believed that all in nature should be respected.

4. He traveled across the country to share his message of .

5. His continues to inspire people around the world today.