Reading comprehension (entrance exams) worksheet with answers

“Tom was reluctant to jump into the cold lake. He stood on the edge for a long time, dipping one toe in the water.” What does “reluctant” mean?

1. AReady and eager
2. BCareless
3. CExcited
4. DUnwilling

Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, strawberries and peppers. The body uses it to help heal wounds. Which food is named as a source of vitamin C?

1. AStrawberries
2. BBrown rice
3. CHard cheese
4. DWhite bread

“Please do not feed the ducks bread,” says a sign by the pond. “Bread can make them ill. Use the duck food sold at the kiosk instead.” What does the sign suggest instead of bread?

1. AFresh fruit
2. BDuck food from the kiosk
3. CSeeds from the garden
4. DLeftover rice from home

Some birds, such as Arctic terns, migrate thousands of kilometres every year. Scientists think birds find their way using the sun, the stars and Earth’s magnetic field. Which word best describes the scientists’ explanation?

1. AProven
2. BUncertain
3. CUnimportant
4. DHumorous

“Sound travels as vibrations. It moves faster through water than through air, and faster still through solids such as steel.” Through which material does sound travel fastest, according to the passage?

1. AEmpty space
2. BSteel
3. CWater
4. DAir

“After the storm, the town came together. Neighbours cleared fallen trees, shared food and checked on elderly residents.” What is the main theme of the passage?

1. AThe best way to prepare for a storm
2. BWhy older people should move away
3. CThe danger of living near old trees
4. DPeople helping one another in hard times

“Kim read the email twice, set her phone down and stared out of the window. Then she picked up the phone again and began to type a long reply, deleting each sentence before she finished it.” What is Kim most likely feeling?

1. ADelighted by the news
2. BToo tired to read it
3. CBored by the email
4. DUnsure how to respond

“The hospital cut its use of paper by 40 percent after switching to electronic records. Staff said finding patient information became faster. A few older staff members needed extra training.” Which statement is best supported?

1. AThe switch made finding information slower.
2. BThe switch increased the amount of paper used.
3. CThe switch had benefits but also required some training.
4. DEvery member of staff needed extra training.