Naka and Nala talk about fire
Glanice Masilo
Sibusiso Khumalo
English
First sentences
“Hurry up Naka, we’ll be late for school!” exclaims Nala.
-
“I’m freezing! Let’s stop and make a fire to get warm,” says Naka.
1
“Have you forgotten that aunt told us not to play with fire?” asks Nala
-
“I heard her, but we’re not inside the house!” replies Naka.
2
Nala says, “We’re on the street, but it’s still dangerous. Fire can spread quickly and cause a lot of damage.”
-
Naka thinks about this.
3
“But in the past, fire was the only source of heat and light.
-
People used it for cooking, warmth, and lighting,” says Naka.
4
Nala responds, “Fire is a useful resource, but it’s difficult to control.
-
That’s why children should not light a fire. Everyone should be careful with fire.”
5
Nala continues, “Electricity is safer and cleaner than burning wood or coal.”
-
“Burning those fuels causes a lot of pollution,” adds Nala.
6
Naka asks, “Do you know how fire starts?”
-
“When fuel and air mix together, it can cause a spark. That’s how fire starts,” explains Nala.
7
“When air and fuel mix quickly at the right temperature, a flame starts burning.
-
For example, rubbing sticks together or striking a match.”
8
“Fire gives off smoke,” says Naka.
-
Nala agrees, “Yes, that’s also why we shouldn’t light a fire inside. It’s not healthy to breathe smoke.”
9
Nala and Naka arrive at school.
-
“Never leave a candle or fire burning on its own. Fire can burn houses and people!” warns Nala.
10

——Questions


  1. Who wants to make a fire, and why?
  2. List 3 uses of fire.
  3. List 3 problems with fire.
  4. What is ‘pollution’?
  5. List 2 ways to stay safe from fire.
  6. Find out the word for ‘fire’ in 3 other languages. Write the words and draw a picture.
11
Attribution CC BY
Your attribution should include the following:
Title: Naka and Nala talk about fire
Author/s: Glanice Masilo
Translator/s: Glanice Masilo
Illustrator/s: Sibusiso Khumalo
Assurer/s: African Storybook
Language: English

© Zenex Foundation - Saide 2024

CC BY includes the following elements:
 BY   – Credit must be given to the creator