a) ________________________________
Scientists are only beginning to explore these depths using remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). Each dive reveals new species — and disturbing evidence of human impact. Plastic bags, aluminium cans, and even a discarded Christmas tree have been filmed at the bottom of the Mariana Trench. “We are polluting the deepest wilderness on Earth,” says marine biologist Dr. Lena Okonkwo. “The trench is no longer pristine.” 7. What is the main purpose of the first paragraph? Choose one: (1 mark)
Name: _________________________ Class: _________________________ Date: _________________________ Time allowed: 50 minutes Total marks: /40 Section A: Reading Passage (Fiction) Read the passage below carefully, then answer the questions that follow. year 8 comprehension worksheet pdf
Beneath the waves, far beyond the reach of sunlight, lies a landscape more alien than Mars. Ocean trenches — deep, narrow canyons in the seafloor — plunge to depths of over 11,000 metres. The deepest known point, the Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench, could swallow Mount Everest whole with room to spare.
Below him, the sea chewed at the cliffs. Above, the lantern room waited, cold and patient. Tonight would be his last shift. Tomorrow, automation would arrive — a silent algorithm of sensors and LEDs — and Ezra Keeper, the last keeper of Puffin Island, would become a memory. “We are polluting the deepest wilderness on Earth,”
(2 marks) 5. Why does Ezra whisper “There you are, old girl” to the lighthouse beam? (2 marks) 6. Explain how the writer creates a sad or lonely atmosphere in the final two paragraphs. Refer to at least two examples from the text. (3 marks) Section C: Reading Passage (Non-Fiction) Read the article below, then answer the questions that follow.
12. _____ 13. _____ 14. _____ 15. _____
(2 marks) 11. Explain in your own words why Dr. Lena Okonkwo says the trench is “no longer pristine.” (2 marks) Section E: Vocabulary in Context Match each word from the passages to its correct meaning. Write the letter in the box.