, ENG1517 ASSIGNMENT 1 2026 ANSWERS - DUE DATE MAY / JUNE 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1
The story The Old Woman and Her Pig is a clear example of a cumulative tale, which is a
genre characterised by repetitive structure, sequential addition of events, and a predictable
pattern that builds as the story progresses (Study Guide, Unit 1, TL 501). One key feature of
cumulative tales is repetition with variation, where a phrase or action is repeated while new
elements are added each time. In the story, the old woman repeatedly tries to get help, and
each character she meets refuses to assist her, for example when she says she needs help and
is told to “go to the dog” or another character, creating a chain of repeated refusal and
referral. This shows cumulative structure because each interaction builds on the previous one,
forming a chain of events rather than a single linear action. Another characteristic is the
predictable and patterned sequence, where readers can anticipate what will happen next. The
repeated structure such as asking for help and being redirected supports this pattern, making
the story easy to follow and remember (Unit 1, TL 501).
The cumulative genre also uses amusement through repetition and exaggeration to engage
learners. The humour in the story develops from the increasingly long and repetitive chain of
characters and refusals, which becomes entertaining for children as they begin to predict the
pattern and anticipate the next response. According to Unit 1 of the study guide, cumulative
tales enhance enjoyment by allowing learners to participate in the storytelling experience
through repetition and rhythm. In this story, amusement is created as the old woman’s
situation becomes increasingly frustrating yet humorous because of the exaggerated chain of
events. This repetition not only entertains but also reinforces memory and engagement,
making the cumulative structure both educational and enjoyable for young readers (Study
Guide, Unit 1, TL 501).
QUESTION 1
1.1
The story The Old Woman and Her Pig is a clear example of a cumulative tale, which is a
genre characterised by repetitive structure, sequential addition of events, and a predictable
pattern that builds as the story progresses (Study Guide, Unit 1, TL 501). One key feature of
cumulative tales is repetition with variation, where a phrase or action is repeated while new
elements are added each time. In the story, the old woman repeatedly tries to get help, and
each character she meets refuses to assist her, for example when she says she needs help and
is told to “go to the dog” or another character, creating a chain of repeated refusal and
referral. This shows cumulative structure because each interaction builds on the previous one,
forming a chain of events rather than a single linear action. Another characteristic is the
predictable and patterned sequence, where readers can anticipate what will happen next. The
repeated structure such as asking for help and being redirected supports this pattern, making
the story easy to follow and remember (Unit 1, TL 501).
The cumulative genre also uses amusement through repetition and exaggeration to engage
learners. The humour in the story develops from the increasingly long and repetitive chain of
characters and refusals, which becomes entertaining for children as they begin to predict the
pattern and anticipate the next response. According to Unit 1 of the study guide, cumulative
tales enhance enjoyment by allowing learners to participate in the storytelling experience
through repetition and rhythm. In this story, amusement is created as the old woman’s
situation becomes increasingly frustrating yet humorous because of the exaggerated chain of
events. This repetition not only entertains but also reinforces memory and engagement,
making the cumulative structure both educational and enjoyable for young readers (Study
Guide, Unit 1, TL 501).
