The Hummingbird and The King of Gems by Christopher RudolphAcademic Worksheets

The Hummingbird and The King of Gems

The Hummingbird and The King of Gems is a short story by Christopher Rudolph that explains how the Hummingbird got its ruby colored throat.

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One day long ago the King of Gems saw a brilliant, tiny, precision-flying creature glittering like a jewel in the Sun. He was very much impressed at how it could stop instantly, hover, and adjust its position up, down, or backwards with exquisite control.

Calling up to the bird he asked “What kind of bird are you tiny one?”

Hummingbird replied, “I am a Hummingbird.”

The King said, “You are the best flyer that I have ever seen. Can you fly to the Sun?”

Hummingbird said, “Yes, I most certainly can.”

The King asked, “Could you please fly up to the Sun and fetch me some fire?” For the Kingdom was extremely cold and it had been winter for thousands of years.

Hummingbird said, “I can do that for you, but it will take a long time for me to return.”

The King said, “Well start right away then. For it is so cold, and we need some fire to warm us down here.” So, the Hummingbird flew to the Sun.

Many years later the Hummingbird returned, and brought the fire to the King. The King was so happy, and soon the Kingdom was warmer and everybody was so much more comfortable. But one day a fierce storm swept through the Kingdom. It rained for days and days, and the flames of the fire were put out. Soon the Kingdom became very cold again and it was unbearable.

The King called to the Hummingbird. “Oh, Hummingbird could you please fly back to the Sun to get more fire?” The Hummingbird agreed and off he flew.

Many years later the Hummingbird returned with the fire. The King said, “Oh Hummingbird, last time you brought the fire, and it warmed us, but when it went out it was a very sad day, and everybody has been suffering in the cold all this time. This time you are to put the fire in my magical gem.

The Hummingbird put the fire into the gem. The Hummingbird then said, “Why this is the most magnificent gem I have ever seen. What is it called?”

The King of Gems said, “It is called a Ruby. You are to tend to the fire within this gem, and make sure it never goes out. As long as the fire burns in the gem, our Kingdom will be warm. In order to carry out your duties, you will wear some fire tucked under your chin, and these flames will lick your throat painting your feathers a bright ruby color. You will hence forth be known as the Ruby Throated Hummingbird.” And thus it was so.

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Go to Evasion 101 – A Short Story About Hawks

Go to more Shorts Stories by Christopher Rudolph

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Business Math

by Christopher Rudolph Understanding business math terms is essential for students as they prepare for the challenges of the modern world. Completing Business Math Worksheets, Crossword Puzzles, and Quizzes offers a dynamic approach to learning that goes beyond mere memorization, fostering a deep understanding of crucial concepts while honing problem-solving skills. First and foremost, mastering business math terms equips students with the language necessary to communicate effectively in professional environments. From discussions about profit margins to negotiations over investment returns, a solid grasp of terminology is indispensable. By engaging with crossword puzzles, worksheets, and quizzes, students not only familiarize themselves with these terms but also internalize their meanings, ensuring they can confidently navigate complex business discussions. Furthermore, delving into mathematical computations for determining wages, simple interest, and compound interest empowers students to make informed financial decisions. These skills are not only pertinent in the corporate world but also in personal finance management. Understanding how to calculate wages ensures fair compensation, while proficiency in interest calculations enables individuals to evaluate investment opportunities and debt management strategies effectively. Moreover, Shopping Math Worksheets provide practical experience in applying mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios. By learning to add up shopping bills while considering taxes and discounts, students develop essential financial literacy skills. These exercises instill a sense of responsibility and competence in managing finances, preparing students for the financial decisions they’ll face in adulthood. NEW – 100 Most Important Terms for Business Math for 6th -12th Grades Business Math Crosswords and Quizzes Shopping Math (3 Levels) 3rd – 8th Grades – Introduces topics like taxes and discounts while calculating a bill. Shopping Math Worksheets, Crosswords, and Quizzes. Wages Worksheets and Quizzes – Wages Worksheets and quizzes introduce topics like gross pay, net pay, and payroll deductions. Students will also learn how to calculate wages for hours worked as well as calculating hourly wages. Simple Interest Worksheets – Students calculate interest based on principal, rate, and time. Compound Interest Worksheets – Students learn to compound rates annually, semiannually, quarterly, monthly, weekly, and daily. Teachers, parents, and students can print and make copies. Other worksheets for Elementary Students – Money in Words and Adding US Coins Minute Subtraction PDFs Minute Addition PDFs Minute Multiplication PDFs Minute Division PDFs Math Vocabulary Crossword Puzzles 2nd Grade – 3rd Grade – 4th Grade – 5th Grade – 6th Grade – 7th Grade – 8th Grade Go to Rudolph Academy FREE Math Worksheets

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