Page 8 - Making Instruction Work

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simply wasn’t anything about Tripping the Light Fantastic that
Doodly couldn’t tell you about.
Finally the appointed day burst over the horizon. Doodly
was handed his three-dimensional holographic diploma, along
with as much pomp as could be arranged under the circum-
stances. He was so proud that he showed it to everyone in
sight. But when at last the oohs and aahs abated, he tucked his
diploma under his arm and went off to find . . . a Position.
Naturally, he went first to Upsyde Fantasies, the most magnif-
icent theater in all of Downs.
“Here is my diploma,” he said proudly to the Keeper of the
Entertainment. “I am ready to Trip the Light Fantastic and
show that I have become the best that I can.”
“Well, well, well,” said the Keeper, with a lift of his eyebrows.
“Anyone with a diploma as shiny as yours certainly deserves
respect. And as we happen to have an opening for tonight’s
performance, you’re hired.”
So within hours it came to pass that Doodly faced his first
Opening Night. He was so excited that his synapses literally
twanged in anticipation. Then, just as he was giving his shoes
a final sparkle, he heard the fanfare and the great clashing of
cymbals—his cue for his first Grand Entrance. And he rushed
onto the Stage of Life.
But the Glorious Triumph was not to be. For hardly had he
approached the center of the stage before he got all tangled up
in his own feet and fell flat on his face. Kersplat!
“Oh, my,” said Doodly to the sweet young partner twiddling
on her toes and trying to swallow a horrendously loud giggle.
“They certainly taught me the tripping part of it, but I wonder
what happened to the Light Fantastic? I could do this well
before I started.”
And wonder he might. Because try as he did, and he did try,
all he could ever manage was a very ungainly but hilarious
squat that caused everyone to roar with laughter whenever he
walked upon the stage.