Fifth Grade
Worksheets
Shoo Fly, I Want Pie!
"Who would want to eat a pie called 'shoo fly' pie?" Madison thought to herself.
Madison and her family were on a trip to Pennsylvania. They were visiting the Amish country and learning about these intriguing people who lived life in a much simpler way. So far, it had been a very interesting trip. Because her life was so full and busy, Madison found it fascinating to actually meet people who spent their days working hard on a farm, going to school, and enjoying each other's company. She wondered what it would be like to live in a home with no electricity, to ride in a horse-drawn carriage to school, and to grow her own vegetables.
Today, Madison and her family were having lunch with an Amish family. It was a simple meal of biscuits, meat, and fresh carrots. Now the lady of the family, Mrs. Yoder, was asking them if they'd like dessert.
"I have some shoo fly pie ready. Would you like some?" Mrs. Yoder asked as she poured coffee into white mugs.
Madison made a face, and her mom tapped her knee under the table. Fortunately, Mrs. Yoder had been looking the other way.
"Yes, Ma'am," Madison said. "What is shoo fly pie?"
Mrs. Yoder went to her windowsill and carried a pie to the middle of the table.
"Shoo fly pie is a pie made with a very sweet mixture of molasses, shortening, brown sugar, spices, and salt," Mrs. Yoder answered. She cut a small piece of pie for Madison.
Madison hesitantly took a bite. The sweet goo began to melt all over her tongue, and a smile broke out on her face.
