Definite, Indefinite and Zero Article (2) (Exercises)

1. Complete the conversation. Use “a”, “an”, “the” or "-":

Bing Yang:	Hi, Georgina. What are you doing?
Georgina:	I’m reading fable for my English class.
Bing Yang:	What’s fable? I’ve never heard the word before.
Georgina:	fable is short story about animals.
Bing Yang:	About animals? Like science story?
Georgina:	No. It’s fiction. animals act like people. They usually teach lesson. lesson is called moral of story, and it always comes at end.
Bing Yang:	That’s interesting. Who’s author of fable you’re reading?
Georgina:	Aesop. He was ancient Greek writer.
Bing Yang:	Oh, now I know what you’re talking about. My parents used to read fables to me when I was child.
Georgina:	Well, they’re also good for adults. I’ll lend you book when I’m finished if you’re interested.
Bing Yang:	Thanks. I am.

2. Complete this version of Aesop’s fable. Use “a”, “an”, “the” or "-":

The Fox and the Goat

fox fell into well and couldn’t get out again. Finally, thirsty goat came by and saw fox in well. “Is water good?” goat asked. “Good?” said fox. “It’s best water I’ve ever tasted in my whole life. Why don’t you come down and try it?”

goat was very thirsty, so he jumped into well. When he was finished drinking, he looked for way to get out of well, but, of course, there wasn’t any. Then fox said, “I have excellent idea. Stand on your back legs and place your front legs firmly against front side of well. Then, I’ll climb onto your back and, from there, I’ll step on your horns and be able to get out. When I’m out, I’ll help you get out, too.” goat thought this was good idea and followed advice.

When fox was out of well, he quickly and quietly walked away. goat called loudly after him and reminded him of promise he had made to help him out. But fox turned and said, “You should have as much sense in your head as you have hairs in your beard. You jumped into well before making sure you could get out again.”
Moral: Look before you leap.

Source: Focus on Grammar: An Intermediate Course for Reference and Practice, Workbook, Marjorie Fuchs,  Pearson Education