Written comprehension

The Bald Eagle

The Bald Eagle is a majestic bird. The adult bird has a
brown body, brown wings, white head, and large, hooked
yellow bill. Younger birds appear all brown. Bald Eagles
almost always live near water because their main food
source is fish. Sometimes, however, Bald Eagles will eat
dead animals (carrion). They will even steal food from other
birds such as ospreys and gulls! It was for this reason that
the famous Patriot Benjamin Franklin preferred the Wild
Turkey as America's National symbol. Nevertheless, the
Bald Eagle remains America's symbol.
1.) Benjamin Franklin thought.
a) the bald eagle was a fine choice for Americas symbol.
b) the wild turkey was a better choice as Americas symbol than
the Bald Eagle.
c) the bald eagle was a better choice as Americas symbol than
the wild turkey.
d) Neither the bald eagle nor the wild turkey were good choices
as Americas symbol.

2.) How are younger bald eagles different from adult bald
eagles?
a) They have lighter bodies. c) They have black bills.
b) They are totally brown. d) They are smaller.

3.) What color is the bald eagles bill?

a) Black. b) Brown. c)Yellow. d) White.

4.) The author seemed surprised that

a) bald eagles have white heads.
b) bald eagles eat fish.
c) the bald eagle is Americas symbol.
d) bald eagles steal food from other birds.

5.) Why do Bald Eagles usually live near water?

a) They eat fish. d) To protect the nest from
predators.
b) Bald Eagles like to swim.
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c) Bald Eagles like to steal food.

Blue Whale
The blue whale is the largest living animal to have ever
lived on the planet Earth. Blue Whales are way larger than
the largest dinosaur that ever lived. The largest Blue
Whales can grow as large as 100 feet long, which is longer
than three school buses put together! Even though blue
whales are huge, they eat tiny creatures known as krill. Krill
are tiny shrimp-like animals. The whale simply opens its
mouth, fills it with krill and salt water, and filters the water
out of plates in its mouth called baleen. The blue whale
may eat over 8,000 pounds of krill in a single day!
1.) What happens to the salt water that the Blue Whale
gulps?
a) It gets turned to fresh water. c) It swallows the water.
b) It filters it out. d) The passage doesnt say.

2.) The Blue Whale eats.

a) sharks. c) big fish.
b) humans. d) small creatures called krill.

3.) What is NOT true?

a) The Blue Whale is larger than the largest dinosaur.
b) The Blue Whale can eat 8,000 pounds of krill per day.
c) The Blue Whale is smaller than some elephants.
d) The Blue Whale can grow longer than three school buses.

4.) A Blue Whale can grow as long as __________ feet.

5.) A Blue Whale.

a) is large, but smaller than some dinosaurs.
b) is large, but smaller than a school bus.
c) is larger than any animal that has ever lived on earth.
d) uses its sharp teeth to chew up large fish.
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The Floating Markets of Bangkok

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a city of contrasts. The
tall glass buildings look like any other modern city. But
behind them is a place where life hasn't changed for over
100 years - the canals. Built in 1866 by the King of
Thailand, these canals are home to many Thai people who
still live and work there today. There are four floating
markets around Bangkok and the oldest and most popular
is in the town of Damonen Saduak.
This market opens every day from 6.30 a.m. It's best to
shop early and go by water taxi. After 9 a.m. the tourist
buses arrive, and it's much too busy.
It's a colourful, noisy, fascinating place. Old ladies with
huge hats sit in small boats, filled with tropical fruit and
vegetables, fresh coconut juice and local food. Did you miss
your breakfast? Then just call a seller for a bowl of hot
soup. He'll get it from a cooker at the back of his boat!
But the boats don't just sell food. Would you like a
traditional hat? A silk dress? A flowered shirt? Then just call
and point. After the noise and excitement of the market,
continue along the canal. Soon you'll see the wooden
houses, orchards, and floating flowers of the canal villages.
It's a lovely, peaceful way to finish your trip.
 Written comprehension

1-Bangkok is a city of contrasts because _______________.

a. it has new buildings and old markets
b. it has wooden houses and orchards
c. it has old ladies who wear huge hats
d. the boats do not just sell food
e.

2- The canals were built by _______________.

a. Thai People c. the King of Thailand
b. old ladies d. Damonen Saduk

3- What is the best way to go to the market?

a. By plane.
b. By train.
c. In a water taxi.
d. On the tourist bus.

4- In paragraph 3, line 3, the pronoun He refers to

_______________.
a. an old lady
b. the King of Thailand
c. a seller
d. the market

5- Which one of the following statements is TRUE?

a. The boats sell old clothes and huge hats.
b. The boats sell hot soup and glass buildings.
c. The boats sell cookers at the back of the boats.
d. The boats sell local food and coconut juice.
e.
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A Perfect Day in Provence

Every Sunday in a small town called Isle-sur-Ia-Sorgue in
southern France there is a truly amazing market. Isle-sur-Ia-
Sorgue is like Venice.
The River Sorgue runs in and out of the old narrow streets
and under the many bridges, and on market day every
street and bridge is packed with stalls. From early morning,
this sleepy little town becomes a noisy, busy place, with
sellers calling to you in the accent of the south.
You can choose from an amazing selection of olives,
hundreds of cheeses, and delicious roast chickens. But it is
not just-a food market. Antique sellers fill the pavements
with beautiful old French furniture, and there are tables
covered with antique lace and cloth. Flower sellers invite
you to pick from their brightly coloured bunches of flowers.
The air is filled with the smell of soaps, herbs, and
lavender, all made and grown in Provence. Do you need a
sun hat? Did you forget your beach towel? Your choices are
endless.
Travellers fill their backpacks with delicious things for
Sunday lunch: olive bread, tomatoes, chicken, melon and,
of course, a bottle of local mineral water. At 1 o'clock
everything closes, and everyone goes home. Then it's time
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to find a cool place next to the river for a perfect picnic on
a perfect day in Provence.

1- Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is the name of the _______________.

a. Town b. river c. bridge d. street

2- The market opens from _______________.

a. the early morning until 1 oclock
b. 1 oclock until the end of the day
c. 1 oclock until late in the evening
d. early morning until after mid night

3- Antique sellers have _______________.

a. sun hats and beach towels
b. soaps, herbs and lavender
c. cheese and roast chicken
d. furniture, lace and cloth

4- Which one of the following statements is TRUE?

a. All week, every street and bridge is packed with stalls.
b. On Sunday, every street and bridge is packed with stalls.
c. In southern France, every street and bridge is packed with
stalls.
d. In Venice, every street and bridge is packed with stalls.

5- Which one of the following statements is NOT TRUE?

a. The smell of the brightly coloured bunches of flowers fill the
air.
b. The market sells food, antiques, sun hats and beach towels.
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c. Travellers fill their backpacks with delicious food for Sunday
lunch.
d. After the market closes, you can have a perfect picnic near
the
river.

The Souks of Marrakech

Marrakech in Morocco is a city of ancient, sand-coloured
buildings and palm trees in the middle of the desert. In the
centre is the main square, Jemaa el Fna. Here you can see
snakes and drink Moroccan coffee. But behind the square is
the real heart of the city. This is the souk (the Arabic word
for market). Hundreds of little shops and stalls are open
from early morning till lunchtime, and again in the evening.
The souk, with its narrow, busy streets, is divided into lots
of smaller souks. There's the aromatic spice souk, the noisy
meat souk, the colourful clothing souk, the gold and silver
souk, and many more. Finally, there's the carpet souk.
Here, hundreds of handmade Moroccan rugs and carpets
cover the pavements. No two rugs are the same. In Mr.
Youssef's rug shop, he invites you to sit down among all the
beautiful carpets. A silver teapot arrives with little glasses
and Mr.Youssef talks about the different rugs, while his
assistants roll them out one by one. King Abdul Aziz
 Written comprehension
University, Ladies Campus, English Language Institute,
External Unit, 2013/2014 10 New Headway Plus- Special
Edition Two hours later, after many glasses of traditional
mint tea and lots of bargaining, you finally choose your rug
and leave much poorer. Then it's time to return to the main
square to watch the snakes and count your money.

1- In paragraph 1, line 1, the word ancient means

_______________.
a. new and modern c. palm trees
b. very old d. sand-coloured

2- Where can you see snakes and drink Moroccan coffee?

a. In the spice souk. c. Next to the narrow streets.
b. In the main square. d. Behind the main square.

3- In paragraph 3, line 4, the pronoun them refers to

a. Assistants b. rugs c. souks d. little glasses

4- Which one of the following statements is TRUE?

a. The souk does not open in the evening.
b. The streets in the souk are wide and quiet.
c. Market is the Arabic word for souk.
d. The souk is divided into many smaller souks.

5- Which one of the following statements is NOT TRUE?

a. In the carpet souk, all the rugs are the same.
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b. In the carpet souk, there are hundreds of rugs and carpets.
c. In the carpet souk, rugs and carpets are handmade.
d. You can drink traditional mint tea in Mr. Youssefs shop.

The children of Gaza

For the children of Gaza Strip, getting an education isnt
easy. There are 640 schools for nearly million students,
and schools have two shifts a day some children have
classes in the evenings.
School buildings and surrounding roads are often closed,
and going to school can be impossible for long periods.
However, a good education still comes first in most Gazan
parents ambitions for their children, and among 15-24-
year-olds literacy is 98.2%, higher than in America.
The children want to learn, and they are tough here, said
one teacher. Teachers persuade young people to come to
school rather than get involved in the protests and fighting.
We try to explain that there are other ways to fight for our
rights, through our words, and through learning and
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teaching others about whats happening, by helping each
other. The young people of Gaza cant go abroad, and they
need to feel that the world can hear their voices. In 2010,
with The Gaza Mono-Logues project of ASHTAR Theatre,
children in Gaza had the opportunity to record their
experiences of life.
On October 17th, they read their monologues aloud on the
sea shore, and then sent them on papers boats across the
sea. Later that day, 1000 young people presented the
monologues in 50 cities across the world.

1- Getting education is very __________ for children of Gaza.

a. Easy b. difficult c. Interesting d. cheap

2- There are about __________ schools in Gaza Strip.

a. 460 b. 640 c. 64 d. 604

3-Schools in Gaza have __________ shifts a day.

a. Four b. three c. two d. one

4- Gazan parents __________.

a. dont want their children to learn
b. want their children to learn
c. cant afford sending their children to schools
d. want their children to work and help them

5- Young people of Gaza want the world to __________.

a. be rich c. sing songs with them
b. hear their voices d. give them money

6- The Gaza Mono-Logues project of ASHTAR Theatre was in

__________.
a. 2010 b. 2009 c. 2008 d. 2011

7- Which of the following statements is TRUE?

a. Children of Gaza didnt have the opportunity to record their
experiences in life.
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b. They read their monologues on TV.
c. They sent their monologues by plane.
d. 1000 young people presented the monologues in 50 cities.

8- Which of the following statements is NOT TRUE?

a. Teachers encourage young people to get involved in the
fighting.
b. Gazan children want to learn at schools.
c. School buildings and roads are often closed in Gaza.
d. The young people of Gaza cant go abroad.

9- The pronoun their in paragraph 2 refers to __________

a. Education b. ambitions c. Children d.
Gazan parents

10- The pronoun they in paragraph 4 refers to __________

a. Teachers b. Gaza c. Children d. Young
people

The DNA
Did you know that a tiny piece of your hair gives us
information about who you are related to, which career you
could be successful in, any crimes you have committed,
what illnesses you could get, how and when you could die?
This is possible thanks to the information in DNA (or
deoxyribonucleic acid). Your hair and every cell in your
body contains your own unique DNA. It can tell you a lot
about your family, health, and personality. DNA was
discovered by a German scientist, Friedrich Miescher, in
1869, but nobody realized its importance then. Other
scientists thought that it was too simple to contain the map
of how we are made! In 1953, a group of British scientists
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at Cambridge University finally discovered the structure of
DNA and how it worked. They were given the Nobel Prize
for Medicine in 1962. Gradually, scientists learned to read
more and more of the information in DNA. In 1986, for the
first time DNA testing was used by the police. Some DNA is
usually left by a criminal at the place where the crime was
committed. This can be matched with DNA from a suspect.
The test shows if the suspect is guilty. In 1990 the Human
Genome Project was begun. Scientists wanted to make a
map of the 3 billion chemical letters in human DNA. Over
1,000 scientists all over the world worked on the project,
and it took 10 years. With this information, it is possible
that a cure for many diseases will be found in the future.
But it also brings with it many questions. Do we want to be
able to choose what our babies will look like, or pick the
best person for a job with DNA tests?

1- Your DNA is in __________.

a. the food you eat
b. your hair and every cell in your body
c. Cambridge University

2- DNA tells everyone about__________.

a. their routines and activities
b. their families, health and personalities
c. their websites and blogs

3- __________ discovered DNA in 1869.

a. A British scientist
b. A German scientist
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c. A French scientist

4- In 1986, DNA was first used by __________.

a. the army
b. universities
c. the police

5- __________ were given the Nobel Prize for medicine in 1962.

a. German scientists
b. British scientists
c. African scientists

News on the radio

Its 11 oclock. Here is the late news.

ITALIAN CLUB JUVENTUS are the new European Champions.

They beat Manchester United 21 in an exciting final in
Paris tonight. Irish striker Billy Keane scored the winning
goal in the 86th minute.
POLICE ARE LOOKING FOR two children who disappeared
this evening during a school visit to a London theatre. Peter
Brown and Ann Walters, both aged 16, went to buy a drink
after the second act of Shakespeares Romeo and Juliet, but
did not return to their seats. Police say the two are good
 Written comprehension
friends, and that their passports have also disappeared.
They are watching Heathrow Airport.
A LORRY DRIVER is in hospital tonight after his lorry
crashed through the wall of a house in a Sussex village. It
stopped in the living room of John and Amy Basset,
smashing their sofa and TV. Luckily, the Bassets and their
young son were in the kitchen having dinner at the time,
and were not hurt. Police think the driver fell asleep at the
wheel.
A NEW REPORT says that English children arent very good
at maths. Out of 38 countries in the study, England is only
in 20th position. But its better at science, coming 9th out
of 38. American children are 19th in maths and 18th in
science.
AND FINALLY, tomorrows weather. Most of the country will
be sunny, with temperatures reaching around 20 degrees.
The north will be cooler, with some rain, and it will be quite
windy everywhere.

1- Billy Keane plays for an ............ football club.

a) Italian b) English c) Irish

2- What did the schoolchildren go to London to see?

a) A film. b) A concert. c) A play.

3- The children disappeared ............ the performance.

a) before b) during c) after

4- Have the two children left the country?

a) Yes b) No c) We dont know.
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5- What were the Bassets doing when the accident
happened?
a) Sleeping. b)Eating. c) Watching TV.

6- How many people were hurt in the accident?

a) One. b) Two. c) Three.

7- English children are better than American children

at ............ .
a) maths b)science c)maths and science

8- What will the weather be like tomorrow in the south

of the country?
a) Windy and sunny.
b) Rainy and windy.
c) Sunny and rainy.

The Silk Road

In 1274, Italian explorers Marco and Niccolo Polo set out on
a 24 year journey in which they traveled the famous Silk
Road from Italy, through brutal deserts and towering
mountains to eastern China. They traveled over 4,000
miles in all. Marco and Niccolo were among the very first
Europeans to explore the fabled empire of China. In China,
Marco Polo even worked for ruler Kublai Khan. Polo detailed
his experiences and findings in China by writing a book.
Polo described materials and inventions never before seen
 Written comprehension
in Europe. Paper money, a printing press, porcelain,
gunpowder and coal were among the products he wrote
about. He also described the vast wealth of Kublai Khan, as
well as the geography of northern and southern China.
European rulers were very interested in the products Polo
described. However, trading for them along the Silk Road
was dangerous, expensive and impractical. European rulers
began to wonder if there was a sea route to the east to get
the products they wanted at a reasonable price.

1- How many years did Marco Polo's journey take to China?

It took_____________________________ years.

2- Marco Polo traveled over _____________________ miles in his

travels to China.

3- In China, Marco polo worked for ______________ ______, the

ruler
of China.

4- Marco Polo came to China from what country?

a) England b) Europe c) Italy d) China

5- While traveling in China, Marco Polo observed many new

discoveries. Which of the following is not one of the
discoveries?
a) cigarettes
b) paper money
c) gunpowder
d) coal

6- Marco polo traveled to China with ______________ Polo.

7- What word below best captures the meaning of

"impractical" in the sentence:
However, trading for them along the Silk Road was dangerous,
expensive and impractical.

a) positive
 Written comprehension
b) ridiculous
c) not funny
d) too difficult

8- Because of the difficulties in traveling the Silk Road,

European rulers began wondering if there was a
______________ route to the east.

The American Revolution

The first battle of the American Revolution occurred at
Lexington, Massachusetts, in 1775. The American colonists
were angry about numerous taxes issued by the British
king. In 1776, the colonists issued the Declaration of
Independence, a document written by Thomas Jefferson
that outlined America's intention to become a new country
separate from England. England wanted to maintain control
 Written comprehension
of America, and vowed to fight the colonists. The war
lasted eight long years. The Americans won many
important battles such as those at Saratoga and Yorktown.
Many American heroes emerged such as George
Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin.
Finally, in 1781, the British surrendered at Yorktown,
Virginia, and a new nation was born two years later.

1- The first battle of the American Revolution occurred at

_______________, Massachusetts.
2- Why did the Revolution occur?
a) Colonists were angry about their poor living conditions
b) England attacked the colonies
c) Colonists were angry about having to pay so many taxes
d) Colonists wanted to have more land

3- Which of the following was NOT true about the

Declaration of Independence?
a) It said that colonists wanted their own country
b) It said that England wanted a separate country
c) It said the colonists wanted to be separate from England
d) It was written by Thomas Jefferson

4- The Revolutionary War lasted _____________ years.

5- Which of the following was NOT an important battle won

by the colonists?
a)Yorktown b)Saratoga c)Washington

6- Which of the following WAS NOT a hero that emerged

from the Revolutionary War?
a)Thomas Jefferson b)George Washington
c)Benjamin Franklin d)Abraham Lincoln

7- Which of the following IS NOT true?

a)The British surrendered at Saratoga in1783
b)The British vowed to fight the colonists
 Written comprehension
c)The colonists won important battles at Yorktown and
Saratoga
d)In 1783, a new nation was born

8- Which of the following IS NOT true?

a) The British were defeated in the war against the colonists.
b) The first battle of the Revolution was fought before the
signing of the Declaration of Independence
c) The first battle occurred at Lexington in1776
d) The Declaration of Independence was written before 1783.

Rainbows
Rainbows are often seen when the sun comes out after or
during a rainstorm. Rainbows are caused when sunlight
shines through drops of water in the sky at a specific angle.
When white sunlight enters a raindrop, it exits the raindrop
a different color. When light exits lots of different raindrops
at different angles, it produces the red, orange, yellow,
 Written comprehension
green, blue, indigo, and violet that you see in a rainbow.
Together, these colors are known as the spectrum. These
colors can sometimes be seen in waterfalls and fountains
as well. Did you know that there are double rainbows? In a
double rainbow, light reflects twice inside water droplets
and forms two arcs. In most double rainbows, the colors of
the top arc are opposite from those in the bottom arc. In
other words, the order of colors starts with purple on top
and ends with the red on bottom. Believe it or not,
rainbows sometimes appear as white arcs at night. These
rainbows are called moonbows. Moonbows are caused by
moonlight (rather than sunlight) shining through drops of
water.

1- Rainbows are often seen _________________.

a) after a rainstorm c) before a rainstorm
b) after the sun sets at night d) before a storm

2- Rainbows are produced when ___________________

a) light exits many raindrops at different angles.
b) the sun causes a rainstorm.
c) the spectrum causes a rainstorm.
d) the sun comes out after a storm.

3- What color is NOT in a rainbow?

a) Yellow b) Indigo c) Orange d) Pink

4- Which of the following IS NOT true?

a) Double rainbows are two rainbows that are exactly the
same.
b) Spectrum colors sometimes appear in fountains and
waterfalls.
c) Moonbows are caused by moonlight.
d) Rainbows are usually seen after or during a storm.

5- What question is answered in the last paragraph?

a) What colors appear in a rainbow?
b) How do double rainbows form?
c) How long do rainbows last?
 Written comprehension
d) Why do waterfalls produce rainbow-like spectrums?

6- What would be a good title for this passage?

a) The History of Rainbows
b) Differences Between Normal Rainbows and Double
Rainbows
c) Moonbows!
d) The Basics About Rainbows

7- The author describes moonbows as "so strange that very

few people will ever see one." Which of the following might
also be described as very rare?
a) A ruler b) A pink diamond
c) A fireman d) A Squirrel

8- What color is a moonbow?

a)White b) Yellow c) Green d) Doesnt appear

Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin was one of the most important
Americans in history. In the early part of his life, Franklin
was a business person and inventor. He ran the
 Written comprehension
Pennsylvania Gazette (newspaper) and also published Poor
Richard's Almanac. Poor Richard's Almanac was very
popular because it made predictions about the future and
had wise sayings. Ben Franklin also invented the Franklin
stove, lightning rod, bifocals (eyeglasses), and started
America's first library. He is probably best known for his kite
experiment which proved electricity could be harnessed
from lightning. In the later part of his life, Franklin became
interested in politics. He spent many years in England
before coming back to America. In 1776, Franklin helped
Thomas Jefferson write the Declaration of Independence.
Two years later, he went to France and convinced the
French to help America in the war against England. After
the war, Franklin joined the Continental Congress and
signed the Constitution. He died in 1790. Today, Ben
Franklin is honored on the $100 dollar bill. His name is
honored on highways, schools, and businesses across
America.

1- Which of the following is something invented by Ben

Franklin?
a) Headphones b) Electricity c) Bifocals d) Kites

2- Which is something that may have been found in Poor

Richard's Almanac?
a) Directions for operating a soda machine.
b) The score of a football game.
c) "A penny saved is a penny earned".
d) People's phone numbers.

3- Ben Franklin started America's first _______________.

4- Ben Franklin proved electricity could be harnessed from

_________________.

5- In the later part of his life, Franklin became interested in

_________________ .

6- Which of the following did Ben Franklin not do?

 Written comprehension
a) Become President
b) Sign the Constitution
c) Help with the Declaration of Independence
d) Travel to England

7- What happened first?

a) Franklin goes to France.
b) 1776.
c) Franklin signs the Constitution.
d) Franklin goes to England

8- Today, Ben Franklin is honored on the __________ dollar bill

Crickets
 Written comprehension
Description: The adult House Cricket is about two
centimeters in length. The body is usually light brown with
black markings about the head and thorax. The female is
told from the male by the presence of an ovipositor, a long
extension attached to the end of the abdomen, used for
depositing eggs in the soil. House crickets have
conspicuous jumping legs and have two pairs of wings, of
which, only the back pair are used for flight.
Habitat: House Crickets can be found in a variety of
habitats including woodlands, suburbs, urban areas,
buildings, ducts, siding, restaurants and anywhere else
there happens to be a food supply and warm air. Although
many crickets die off in the colder months, those that
manage to find their way indoors can stay alive year round.
Reproduction: Crickets reach sexual maturity between eight
and twelve weeks after birth. Males attract mates by
rubbing their wings together to produce a noise sometimes
referred to as "chirping". Technically, this process is called
stirdulation. Interestingly enough, the rate in which a
cricket "chirps" is determined by the temperature outside.
When it is warmer, crickets chirp faster. Scientists can
actually tell the exact outdoor temperature by timing the
rate of cricket "chirpings". After the male mates with
female, the female will lay between 50 and 100 eggs in the
ground or another soft surface. The eggs hatch in about
two weeks.
Life Cycle: Incomplete Metamorphosis: egg -> nymph ->
adult Diet: House Crickets will eat just about anything
including soft plant matter, insects, young crickets, and
decomposing matter.
 Written comprehension

1- In which of the following months would it be unlikely to

see a cricket outdoors?
a) January b) May c) September d) July

2- What determines how fast a cricket "chirps"?

a) Food supply b) The number of predators
around
c) The number of females around d) Temperature

3- How long does it take cricket eggs to hatch?

a) 7 days b) 21 days c) 4 days d) 14
days

4- What do male crickets rub together to make their

"chirping" noise?
a) Wings b) Legs c) Spiracles d) Antennae

5- Which of the following shows the cricket's correct life

cycle?
a) egg -> nymph -> adult b) nymph -> adult -> egg
c) adult -> nymph -> egg d) egg -> adult -> nymph

6- What organ is used for depositing eggs into the soil?

a) Thorax b) Ovipositor c) Legs d) Head

7- Where would you probably NOT find a cricket?

a) Ocean b) Woodlands c) House d) Restaurant

8- Which of the following is probably NOT part of a cricket's

typical diet?
a) Insects b) Plant Material c) Wood d) Other Crickets
 Written comprehension

Christopher Columbus
Christopher Columbus was born in Genoa, Italy in 1451.
While spending most of his early years at sea, Columbus
began to believe that he could find a shortcut to the Indies
by sailing west across the Atlantic Ocean. Unfortunately,
the King of Portugal refused to finance such a trip, and
Columbus was forced to present his idea to the King and
Queen of Spain. In 1492, King Ferdinand and Queen
Isabella agreed to pay for his trip. They gave him a crew
and three ships, the Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria. Columbus
sailed aboard the Santa Maria. The trip was long and hard.
Many sailors grew restless and wanted to turn around. After
two months at sea, land was finally sighted. The ships
docked on the island of Hispaniola. Columbus named the
native people he saw "Indians", because he believed he
had found the shortcut he was looking for. In actuality,
Columbus found North America, a brand new continent at
that time. Columbus, however, couldn't be convinced. He
died with the belief he had found the shortcut to the Indies.
Soon, however, other explorers and nations understood the
importance of his discoveries. Columbus' discoveries set
the stage for the Age of Exploration: one of the most
fascinating and exciting times in world history.
1- Where was Christopher Columbus born?
a) The New World b) Portugal c) Spain d) Italy

2- Columbus believed he could find a shortcut to the

____________________.
 Written comprehension
3- The King of __________________ refused to finance (provide
money) for Christophers trip.

4- In the year ____________________, Christopher Columbus set

sail.

5- Which is not True?

a) Columbus was born in Italy

b) Columbus received three ships and a crew from the King
and Queen of Spain
c) Columbus found a shortcut to the Indies
d) The journey across the Atlantic took two months

6- What did Columbus names the native people he saw?

____________________________

7- Which of the following was NOT one of his ships?

a) Nina b) Pinta c) Isabella d) Santa

Maria

8- Why was Christopher Columbus very important?

a) He believed he found a shortcut to the Indies

b) He first used the word "Indians"
c) He discovered a whole new continent
d) He was one of the bravest explorers of all time
 Written comprehension

Butterflies

Butterflies are some of the most interesting insects on the

planet Earth. There are more than seventeen thousand
different kinds of butterflies! Butterflies come in all shapes
and sizes. Butterflies go through four main stages of life.
The first stage is the egg stage followed by the larva stage.
As a larva, or caterpillar, the future butterfly eats as much
as possible. As it grows, it sheds it outer skin, or
exoskeleton. This may happen four or five times. After a
few weeks, the caterpillar enters the next stage of its life,
the chrysalis stage. In the chrysalis, the caterpillar will
liquefy into a soup of living cells. Then, it will reorganize
into a butterfly and the metamorphosis is complete. In later
parts of the chrysalis stage, you can see the forming
butterfly through the chrysalis. When the butterfly emerges
from the chrysalis, it pumps its wings to send blood through
them so that it can fly. Most butterflies only live a couple of
weeks, just enough time to drink flower nectar and to
mate. Some, like the Monarch Butterfly, however, may live
many months.
 Written comprehension
1- How many stages of life does a butterfly go through?
_________________________

2- Which of the following is NOT true?

a) Butterflies must wait until blood drains into their wings
before flying.
b) The butterfly may shed its skin 8 or 9 times
c) Caterpillars turn into a liquid in the chrysalis
d) Most butterflies live a short time

3- In what stage does the metamorphosis happen?

a) Butterfly b) Caterpillar c) Chrysalis d) Egg

4- Which is true?
a) There are about a thousand different kinds of butterflies in
the world)
b) There are more than a thousand different kinds of
butterflies in the world)
c) There are less than a thousand different kinds of butterflies
in the world)
d) There is only one kind of butterfly in the world)

5- Why does the butterfly shed its skin?

a) It is hungry b) The butterfly is coming

c) It is growing d) To defend itself against
predators

6- What is the second stage of life for a butterfly?

a) Larva b) Chrysalis
c) Butterfly d) Egg

7- What is the third stage of life for a butterfly?

a) Larva b) Chrysalis c) Butterfly d) Egg

8- Circle all of the things a butterfly does.

 Written comprehension
a) lays eggs b) goes through metamorphosis
c) mates d) drinks nectar from flowers

AN E-MAIL
Hi Ellie,
Im so pleased you can come surfing in August! Paul, Rose
and Kevin are coming too, so there will be five of us. Weve
decided to return to New Sands, because the surf board
hire is so cheap there. Im starting to think about
accommodation. We wont camp again after last year! I
hated staying in a tent in all that rain!
Kevin wants to hire a caravan. There are some nice ones
with 3 bedrooms, showers and cooking facilities. The
problem is, none of the caravan parks take short bookings
in the summer. The minimum stay is a week. Its a shame
because there are several nice parks near the beach.
Theres a youth hostel in New Sands. Its the cheapest
option after camping, and theres a big kitchen and dining
room where we can cook. The problem is, accommodation
 Written comprehension
is in dormitories and I dont really want to sleep with
strangers.
There are a few guest houses in New Sands. Some have
triple rooms, so wed only need to book two rooms. Theyre
not expensive, but we wouldnt be able to cook there. Wed
have to eat out at restaurants, or eat sandwiches for every
meal! Well have to book soon if we choose that option,
because many guest houses are already full. The hotels in
New Sands are far too expensive, even though Id love to
stay at the Sunrise Pavilion with its rooftop pool! The final
option is to rent a cottage. Few cottages offer mid-week
breaks in summer, but I found one. It has three bedrooms -
a double, a single and a twin, so two of us would have to
share a bed! Theres a big kitchen diner with a microwave,
washing machine and dishwasher. The living room has a TV
and DVD player. Theres just one bathroom, but theres a
separate WC. Theres a nice garden too. The problem is,
its 5 miles from the beach, so wed have to hire a car,
because there arent any buses.
Let me know which option you prefer.

1 Last year the friends stayed in a

a) caravan b) tent c) youth hostel

2 Last year the friends had problems with

a) the weather. b) the transport. c) their surf
boards.

3 The friends want to stay in New Sands for

a) a week. b) a week and a half. c) less than one
week.

4 The problem with the caravan park is that

a) caravans are only available for full weeks.
b) there are not have enough beds for everyone.
 Written comprehension
c) all the caravans are fully booked.

5 Natalie doesnt want to stay in the youth hostel

because
a) it is too expensive.
b) she doesnt want to share with people she doesnt
know.
c) it does not have any self-catering facilities.

6 The guest house

a) is too expensive. b) does not have self-catering
facilities.
b) does not have a restaurant.

7 The Sunrise Pavilion

a) is too expensive. b) does not have a swimming pool.
b) is fully booked.

8 Natalie chose this cottage because

a) it is cheaper than the other cottages.
b) everyone can sleep in a different room.
c) it allows people to stay for less than a week.

9 In the cottage,
a) the dining area and living area are in the same room.
b) the shower and toilet are in the same room.
c) the cooking area and dining area are in the same room.

10 The problem with the cottage is

a) its size. b) its location. c) its price.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF PAULA RADCLIFFE - MARATHON

RUNNER

8.30am
Sometimes, my daughter Isla wakes me and my husband,
Gary, up, or, more often, we wake her up. After I get up, I
 Written comprehension
always check my pulse. It's usually 38-40 beats per minute.
If it is too high, I rest for the day. It's so important to listen
to my body. I have a drink and a snack while giving Isla her
breakfast.

9.30am
We take Isla to nursery and then I start my training. I run,
and Gary rides his bike next to me and gives me drinks.
Four times a week, I have a cold bath or go for a swim in a
lake after training.

12.30pm
I pick up Isla from nursery and we go home and I eat a big
lunch of cereal and fruit. Then I have rice and salmon, or
toast and peanut butter. I try to eat as soon as possible
after training. After lunch, I play with my daughter.

2pm
I have a nap in the afternoon, and Gary usually takes Isla
out while I sleep. When I wake up, I have a drink and a
snack while Isla has milk. I eat a lot during the day,
especially bananas and dark chocolate.

5pm
I go running again. In total, I run about 145 miles every
week. I write about all my runs in my training journal. I
record everything, including how I feel and what the
weather is like. I train hard every other day, go on an extra
long run every four days and rest every eighth day.

7pm
In the evening, I do my exercises. These keep me strong
during long runs. Isla likes to climb on me while I stretch.
Gary gives Isla her tea and cooks mine while I finish my
exercises. Then I finish cooking dinner while Gary gives Isla
her bath.
 Written comprehension
7.30pm
Gary and I eat our dinner. I have red meat four times a
week with rice, pasta or potatoes, and lots of vegetables.
We also eat a lot of stir-fries, because they're quick and
healthy.

8pm
We put Isla to bed and relax. I check my emails and watch
TV or chat with Gary. I love police and hospital dramas!

10.30pm
Time for bed. As I brush my teeth, I stand on one leg and
then the other. This keeps my legs strong. I enjoy reading,
but I havent read much since Isla was born.

1 Usually,
a) Paula and Gary wake c) Isla wakes up Paula and Gary.
up Isla.
b) Gary wakes up Paula
and Isla.

2 While Paula has her morning run, Gary

a) takes Isla to b) goes to work. c) cycles next to
nursery. her.

3 After training, Paula

a) has lunch, bathes, then collects her daughter.
b) bathes, collects her daughter, then has lunch.
c) collects her daughter, bathes, then has lunch.

4 After lunch, Gary looks after Isla while Paula

a) trains. b) sleeps. c) eats.

5 Paula
a) eats large meals but never eats snacks.
b) eats large meals and often eats snacks.
c) eats small meals but often eats snacks.

6 Every two days, Paula

a) goes for a long b) runs 145 c) trains extra hard.
run. miles.
 Written comprehension

7 While Paula does her exercises, her daughter

a) has dinner. b) climbs on c) plays with Gary.
her.

8 In the evening,
a) Gary bathes Isla, then Gary and Paula eat, then Isla goes to
bed.
b) Gary bathes Isla, then Isla goes to bed, then Gary and Paula
eat.
c) Gary and Paul eat, then Gary bathes Isla, then Isla goes to
bed.

THE LOCKWOOD COMMUNITY CENTRE

Karate Club Lockwood Amateur

Beginners: Wednesdays 6-7pm Dramatic Society
Intermediate: Thursdays 6-7pm This winter we will be
Advanced: Fridays 6-7pm performing Puss in Boots.
All classes take place in the If youd like to be on the
main hall. stage, please come to our
Mixed Age Groups from age 5- auditions on Saturday 8th
adult. September. Children: 10-12
Karate kits must be worn. am; Adults 2-5pm in the
Discounts available. Phone main hall.
John on 07885 394848 for No acting experience
information. necessary!
Rehearsals will be on Friday
Handicraft Circle nights 7-9pm in the main
The sewing circle meets in the hall (7-8pm for children)
Blue Room on Mondays and and Wednesdays 7-9pm in
Thursdays from 10am to 12pm. the Blue Room.
Bring along your needlework Dress rehearsal: 3rd
projects. Our friendly group December
can give you tuition and advice Performances: 5-7th
on sewing or knitting. December

Calling all Gentlemen! Photography Club

The Lockwood Male Voice Would you like to take great
 Written comprehension

Choir rehearses in the main pictures?

hall on Mondays from 7.30- Join our Photography Club
9.30 pm. every Friday from 6.30 to
If you love to sing, are over the 8.00 in the Blue Room.
age of 16 and have an ear for Bring your own camera. We
music, please call Ben Freeman can lend you photographic
for information. equipment such as lenses
and tripods.
Messy Fingers Club!
Beginners Welcome
Mondays, Wednesdays and
Fridays from 4.00-5.30pm Gardening Club
Your kids can get messy with The Gardening Club meets
painting, printing and on the first Tuesday of each
modelling. month at 7.00 in the Blue
Suitable for children aged 6-11. Room.
Meet in the main hall. Swap seeds and tips and
Just bring an old shirt that you meet green-fingered friends
dont mind getting messy! Octobers guest lecturer: Jill
Thorn will speak on
Creating a Wildlife Garden

Complete the sentences with the name of ONE OR TWO CLASSES.

1. You must take your own equipment to the

a) Handicraft Circle b) Photography Club
c) Messy Fingers Club d) Gardening Club

2. The ______________________ is only available to children.

a) Karate Club b) Handicraft Circle
c) Messy Fingers Club d) Lockwood Amateur Dramatic Society

3. The ______________________ regularly meets in the morning.

a) Lockwood Amateur Dramatic Society b) Gardening Club
c) Handicraft Circle d) Photography Club

4. The has separate classes for people of different abilities.

a) Karate Club b) Photography Club
c) Lockwood Amateur Dramatic d) Lockwood Male Voice Choir
Society

5. The ______________________ meets twice a week.

 Written comprehension
a) Lockwood Amateur Dramatic b) Messy Fingers Club
Society
c) Handicraft Circle d) Karate Club

6. The ______________________ does not take place every week.

a) Photography Club b) Karate Club
c) Gardening Club d) Lockwood Male Voice Choir

7. Equipment is available to borrow at the ______________________.

a) Photography Club b) Karate Club
c) Gardening Club d) Handicraft Circle

8. You are required to wear certain clothes every week at the

a) Lockwood Amateur Dramatic b) Lockwood Male Voice Choir
Society
c) Messy Fingers Club d) Karate Club

9. Adults and young children can take part in the together.

a) Lockwood Male Voice Choir b) Lockwood Amateur Dramatic Society
c) Messy Fingers Club d) Karate Club

GATESBRIDGES NEW MERRIWETHER MALL

Gatesbridges new
Merriwether Mall is opening
this September. With an
area of 320,000 square
metres, the Merriweather
Mall will be the biggest mall
in the south west. Its
located close to the
motorway, has its own bus
station and 2000 car
parking spaces, so it is convenient for everyone. The mall
has five areas, all under cover. The largest, Main Street, is a
shopping area on three floors. Here, youll find all the major
 Written comprehension
chain stores and department stores. You can buy fashion
items and all the famous brand names. There is also a large
chemist.
Situated on two levels, the market square is where you can
find traditional market stalls. On the lower floor, there are
food stalls, including a butchers, bakers, a fishmongers,
greengrocers and delicatessen. On the upper floor, you will
find stalls selling hardware and haberdashery. Bohemia is
at the rear of the mall. Here, youll find quirky, independent
shops selling everything from second hand music and
books to clothes and handicrafts.
The Palisade is more upmarket. Here you will find fashion
boutiques, jewellers, antiques and furniture. There are also
two banks and a post office located along The Palisade.
The Showground is the entertainment centre of the mall.
On the ground floor, there is a food court where youll find
cuisine from around the world, including Chinese, Japanese,
Thai and Italian food. There is a large arena where events
will take place through the year. There is also an eight-
screen cinema, a night club and a bowling alley.
And if that is not enough, we are offering you a voucher
which will give you 10 off any purchase over 40 that you
make in the Merriwether Mall between 10th and 16th
September. You cant afford to miss it!

1. Where is the best place in the mall to buy an expensive

necklace?
a) Main Street b) Market Square c) Bohemia
d) The Palisade e) The Showground

2. Where is the best place in the mall to buy some bacon?

a) Main Street b) Market Square c) Bohemia
d) The Palisade e) The Showground
 Written comprehension

3. Where is the best place in the mall to buy some Nike

trainers?
a) Main Street b) Market Square c) Bohemia
d) The Palisade e) The Showground

4. Where is the best place in the mall to buy a used CD?

a) Main Street b) Market Square c) Bohemia
d) The Palisade e) The Showground

5. Where is the best place in the mall to have a meal?

a) Main Street b) Market Square c) Bohemia
d) The Palisade e) The Showground

6. Where is the best place in the mall to buy an expensive, old

cupboard?
a) Main Street b) Market Square c) Bohemia
d) The Palisade e) The Showground

7. Where is the best place in the mall to see a film?

a) Main Street b) Market Square c) Bohemia
d) The Palisade e) The Showground

8. Where is the best place in the mall to buy some bacon?

a) Main Street b) Market Square c) Bohemia
d) The Palisade e) The Showground

SIXTEEN - WHAT NOW?

Youre 16 and finally you can leave school! By now, youre

probably sick of teachers, desks, tests and exams. But
dont just run for the exit. You need to think carefully about
what to do next.
If you want a professional career, you will need to go to
university and get a degree. To do that, you need to stay at
high school for another two years. But you neednt stay at
 Written comprehension
the same place. There are several options in the district of
Northacre.
St. Leopolds School has the best pass rate of all the high
schools in the district. It offers a wide range of subjects in
the humanities and sciences. St Leopolds is, of course, a
private school, so may be too expensive for you. But dont
worry, there are several other options if you want to follow
the academic route. Knowle Grammar School is a state
school, so there are no fees, and it has excellent tuition and
facilities. It is a boys school from the ages of 11-16, but
from 16-18 it is co-educational. But it is selective, so youll
have to pass an exam to get in. If youre interested in
going into Business, check out Wyle River Academy. This
school specialises in subjects like Business Studies,
Management and Economics. If you prefer the arts, look at
the courses on offer at Northacre College. Here you can
study woodwork, art, textiles and much more.
Northacre College also offers a wide range of vocational
qualifications. You can do a 1-year certificate or a 2-year
diploma in subjects like electrics, plumbing, roofing and
hairdressing. If youd prefer to work outdoors, look at
Milldown College, where there are courses in Farm
Mechanics, Land Management, Animal Management and
much more.
A final option is to get an apprenticeship with a local or
national company. You will get on-the-job training, gain
certificates or diplomas and start earning straight away.
But be warned - places are limited! Find out more at the
Jobs Fair on 26th May at Northacre College.

1. The aim of the article is to

a) advise young people about how to get to university.
b) tell young people about the options available.
 Written comprehension
c) advise young people to stay in education.

2. The article advises reader who want a professional career

to
a) go to university immediately.
b) stay at the same school for two more years.
c) go to high school for two more years, then get a degree.

3. St Leopolds is the best school for

a) good exam results. c) facilities.
b) humanities and sciences.

4. You can only attend St Leopolds school if you

a) pay tuition fees. c) study both humanities and
b) pass an exam. sciences.

5. You can only attend Knowle Grammar School if you

a) pass an exam. b) are a boy. c) can afford the
tuition fees.

6. Anna wants to work with horses. Where is the best place

for her to study?
a) Wyle River b) Northacre c) Milldown
Academy College College

7. Harry wants to be a builder. Where is the best place for

him to study?
a) Wyle River b) Northacre c) Milldown
Academy College College

8. Kevin wants to be a fashion designer. Where is the best

place for him to study?
a) Wyle River b) Northacre c) Milldown
Academy College College

9. Caroline wants to run her own company. Where is the

best place for him to study?
a) Wyle River b) Northacre c) Milldown
Academy College College
 Written comprehension
MOUNTAIN AREA FORECAST

Mountains can be dangerous places. The weather can

change from one hour to the next, and from one peak to
the next. Always check the weather forecast before you go
out.

Brecon Beacons National Park

Tuesday 4 April

There will be mist and fog in the valleys early on, but this
will lift in the morning. It will be a dry day with some sunny
spells, especially in the north, where it will feel warm. It will
remain cloudy in the south and west. Cloud will get thicker
in the afternoon, and there will be a chance of rain in the
west in the late afternoon.

Visibility: Generally good, but poor in hill fog. May turn

poor in the west in the late afternoon.

Hill fog: Some hill fog above 300 metres at first. This will
lift, but will remain at 600 metres in the morning, and
around the peaks in the afternoon and evening.

Wed 5 April

Weather: A much windier day, and it will feel cold high up,
where temperatures will be low. A bright start, with some
sunshine and showers, but showers will increase in the
afternoon, and there may be some hail and thunder. Snow
showers possible above 800m.

Visibility: Generally good, but moderate in showers.

Hill fog: None expected.

 Written comprehension

Outlook

Thu 6 April

Very windy with gales possible in the north and north east.
Cloudy with rain or drizzle and hill fog. Some bright spells
later, but showers continuing through the afternoon.

Fri 7 April

Overcast at first with areas of hill fog, and also occasional

light rain or drizzle. It will gradually become drier and
warmer, but will remain cloudy. Light southeasterly
breezes.

Sat 8 April

A bright day, with the best of the sunshine in the east. It

will probably turn cloudier with a gentle southeasterly
breeze, but should remain warm and dry.

1. The Weather Office provides a forecast for ___ days.

a) 2 b) 4 c) 5

2. The Weather Office provides a detailed forecast for ___

days.
a) 2 b) 3 c) 5

3. Which day will be driest?

a) 4th April b) 5th April c) 6th April

4. Which day will be windiest?

a) 5th April b) 6th April c) 7th April

5. Which day will be coldest?

 Written comprehension
a) 4th April b) 5th April c) 6th April

6. On which day will the weather gradually improve?

a) 4th April b) 5th April c) 6th April

7. On 4th August, where will be sunniest?

a) the north b) the south c) the west

8. Which day will be brightest?

a) 6th April b) 7th April c) 8th April

9. Which day will be wettest?

a) 5th April b) 6th April c) 7th April

10. Which day has the least fog?

a) 4th April b) 5th April c) 6th April