Reading comprehension (entrance exams) worksheet with answers

A weather report says: “Today will be cloudy in the morning with sunshine in the afternoon. Tonight, expect light rain.” When is rain expected?

1. ATonight
2. BAll day long
3. CThis morning
4. DThis afternoon

“Sara loves to read. For example, she finishes two or three books every week.” What does the phrase “For example” show?

1. AThe writer is about to end the story here.
2. BAn example supporting the first sentence follows.
3. CA different opinion is about to be given.
4. DThe second sentence disagrees with the first.

Some plants, like the cactus, store water in their thick stems. This helps them survive in deserts, where rain may not fall for months. How do cactus plants survive in the desert?

1. AThey store water in their thick stems.
2. BThey grow only near rivers.
3. CThey need rain every day.
4. DThey lose their thick stems in the hot summer.

“It was the first warm day of spring. The park was full of people: children flew kites, families had picnics and old friends sat chatting on benches.” What is the mood of the passage?

1. AGloomy and grey
2. BLonely
3. CTense
4. DCheerful

Instructions for a blood pressure monitor: “Sit quietly for five minutes. Rest your arm on a table at heart level. Do not talk during the reading.” Which action would go against these instructions?

1. ASitting quietly for five minutes beforehand
2. BKeeping completely still and silent during the reading
3. CChatting with a friend while the cuff inflates
4. DResting the arm on a table at heart level

Wetlands such as marshes and swamps act like natural sponges. They soak up rainwater and release it slowly, which reduces flooding downstream. They also filter pollution from the water. Which sentence best summarises the passage?

1. AWetlands are found only near the ocean.
2. BSwamps are more useful than marshes.
3. CWetlands cause flooding after heavy rain.
4. DWetlands reduce flooding and clean water.

The author writes: “Most people in my office prefer tea to coffee. Therefore, tea is the most popular drink in the country.” What is the main flaw?

1. ATea and coffee contain similar amounts of water.
2. BCoffee is more expensive than tea.
3. COne office may not represent the country.
4. DThe author does not drink tea or coffee.

Passage A: “Zoos protect endangered animals and teach visitors about wildlife.” Passage B: “Animals in zoos may suffer in small enclosures far from their natural homes.” Which statement would the author of Passage B most likely agree with?

1. AVisitors learn nothing at zoos.
2. BAll zoos give animals perfect homes.
3. CZoo animals need large, natural spaces.
4. DZoos are the best place for all animals.