Reading comprehension (entrance exams) worksheet with answers

Mars is called the Red Planet because its soil contains iron oxide, which gives it a reddish colour. Why is Mars called the Red Planet?

1. AIt is very close to the sun.
2. BIts soil contains iron oxide.
3. CIt has two small red moons.
4. DIt has red oceans.

A sign at the hospital entrance reads: “All visitors must sign in at the front desk and wear a visitor badge at all times.” What must every visitor do?

1. ACall the ward before arriving
2. BWear a mask and gloves
3. CLeave their bags at the desk
4. DSign in and wear a badge

The clinic is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. It is closed on Sundays and public holidays. At what time does the clinic close on a Saturday?

1. A9 a.m.
2. B8 a.m.
3. C6 p.m.
4. D1 p.m.

“Ella stared at the empty page. The essay was due in an hour, and she had written only her name.” How does Ella most likely feel?

1. ARelaxed
2. BProud
3. CWorried
4. DAmused

A patient reads: “Take this medicine on an empty stomach, one hour before breakfast.” She usually eats breakfast at 8 a.m. When should she take the medicine?

1. AAt 9 a.m. after breakfast
2. BAt 8 a.m. with breakfast
3. CAt 7 a.m.
4. DAt bedtime, before she sleeps

Since the city added bike lanes on Main Street two years ago, the number of cyclists on that street has tripled, and accidents involving cyclists have fallen by half. Which conclusion is best supported by the passage?

1. ABike lanes will reduce all kinds of car accidents in every city.
2. BMain Street had no cyclists before the lanes.
3. CMore people cycled on Main Street after the bike lanes were added.
4. DCyclists on Main Street no longer wear helmets.

“The writer describes the old city as ‘a maze of narrow streets where every corner hides a surprise’.” What does this description suggest about the city?

1. AIt is dangerous and best avoided by visitors.
2. BIt is confusing but full of interest.
3. CIt is boring, with nothing to see.
4. DIt is modern, wide and well planned.

A job ad says: “Wanted: nurse for night shifts. At least two years’ experience required. Must have a valid licence. Spanish speakers preferred.” Which applicant meets all the requirements?

1. ALicensed nurse with 3 years’ experience, speaks only English
2. BNurse with 5 years’ experience, expired licence
3. CLicensed nurse with 1 year of experience, speaks Spanish
4. DStudent nurse, 4 years of study, speaks Spanish