Reading Comprehension Practice Questions

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reading comprehension essay questions

  • B.A., English, University of Michigan

In modern teaching, educators must ensure that their students have excellent reading comprehension skills. Because academics today are predominantly interdisciplinary, a student cannot master core content with anything less than excellent reading comprehension. This is a tall order for teachers.

Sometimes, teachers feel so overwhelmed by checkpoints that must be reached in core content areas that reading falls by the wayside. Don't let this happen. Instead, since reading goes hand-in-hand with every other topic of study, utilize resources for practicing reading comprehension within other subject areas so that your students get used to multitasking.

Reading Comprehension Worksheets

Exercises like the ones found on these free reading comprehension worksheets—complete with multiple-choice and essay questions—are perfect for growing reading comprehension skills. Before long, your students will be prepared for any standardized testing (like the SAT , PSAT , and GRE ) or real-world reading scenario.

These worksheets can stand in for homework, in-class handouts, or extended practice. However you choose to use them, get ready to see results in your students' reading.

The following worksheets focus specifically on finding the main idea , an important aspect of reading comprehension. You'll find worksheets filled with multiple-choice questions, where students will need to eliminate distractors to find the correct main idea, and open-ended questions, where students will need to compose the main idea themselves.

Each of the worksheets in this link features a story or nonfiction snippet that is followed by multiple-choice questions asking students to determine the meaning of a vocabulary word using context clues. Students must be able to discern the meaning of unfamiliar words to have strong comprehension. Match these exercises to your students based on their current ability levels until they are ready for more of a challenge. 

These inference-based worksheets will target your students' ability to read between the lines and reason with what they've read. When completing these exercises, students will study pictures and makes inferences about their meaning using evidence to support their conclusions. This crucial skill takes time to master, so have your students start practicing it now.

Author's Purpose and Tone

These worksheets present paragraphs followed by author's purpose questions similar to those on standardized tests. For each paragraph, students will need to select the choice that best represents the author's purpose for writing the passage, thinking beyond what is stated in the text to why the text was written.

Determining an author's purpose for writing something is a very different concept from identifying the main idea of a piece because it requires much more abstract thinking. Have your students use author's tone to guide their thinking.

  • Author's Purpose Worksheet 1  
  • Author's Purpose Worksheet 2 

Overall Reading Comprehension

This link will take you to a slew of reading comprehension worksheets that are centered around nonfiction passages. The passages range from 500 to over 2,000 words and content includes famous speeches, biographies, art, so you'll definitely be able to find what you need.

Use the worksheets and accompanying multiple-choice questions to test your students' overall comprehension, including their ability to find the main idea, assess the author's purpose, make inferences, understand vocabulary in context , and more!

  • Nonfiction Reading Comprehension Worksheets
  • Inference: A Critical Assumption
  • Free Inference Worksheets and Exercises
  • High School Vocabulary in Context Worksheets
  • How to Assess and Teach Reading Comprehension
  • What is The Author's Purpose?
  • Third Grade Reading Comprehension Books
  • Second Grade Reading Comprehension Books
  • Find the Main Idea Worksheets and Practice Questions
  • How to Boost Reading Comprehension With Reciprocal Teaching
  • How to Find the Main Idea
  • Understanding Vocabulary Words in Context
  • Top 5 ACT Reading Strategies
  • Reading Comprehension Worksheet 2
  • How to Make an Inference in 5 Easy Steps
  • Predictions to Support Reading Comprehension

English that goes straight to the heart

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers

Reading comprehension is the act of understanding what you are reading. In this post, we have added the top 20 Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers.

Important Points:

Daily Test - Attempt Now

  • Students should read Comprehension Passages thoroughly.
  • Read Passages several times, if required.
  • For short types of answers try to answer in one or two sentences.
  • Be careful about what exactly the questions asked.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #1

Globalization is the process by which economies, cultures, and populations around the world become more integrated and interdependent. It is driven by advances in technology, transportation and communication, which have facilitated the flow of people, goods and ideas across national borders.

Globalization has both positive and negative aspects. On the positive side, it has led to economic growth, the spread of new ideas and technologies, and increased cultural exchange. In many parts of the world, it has also helped reduce poverty and raise living standards.

But globalization has also had negative consequences. This has led to job losses in some sectors, as companies move production to countries with lower labour costs. It has also contributed to income inequality and environmental degradation, as companies prioritize profits over sustainability.

Questions and Answers

What is globalization and what are the driving forces behind it?

Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of the world’s economies, cultures, and populations. It is driven by advances in technology, transportation and communication.

What are some positive aspects of globalization?

Some of the positive aspects of globalization include economic growth, the spread of new ideas and technologies, and increased cultural exchange. It has also helped reduce poverty and improve living standards in many parts of the world.

What are some negative consequences of globalization?

Some of the negative consequences of globalization include job loss in some sectors, income inequality and environmental degradation.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #2

Read the following passage and answer the questions below:

Both alligators and crocodiles are members of the reptilian order Crocodylia. But the families they belong to, Alligatoridae and Crocodylidae respectively, differ. Often, when people use the word “crocodile” what they really mean is “crocodilian.” This term encompasses not just the common alligators and crocodiles you might already know, but also the lesser-known Gavialidae family that contains the lone gavial, or gharial. All told, there are 23 species of crocodilians.

As a group, crocodilians are pretty impressive animals: Their lineage goes back 240 million years, meaning they’ve outlived the dinosaurs by a good 65 million years. Ideally suited for life in water and on land, members of the order can swim up to 20 mph (32 kph) and run up to 11 mph (17.6 kph). They’re most at home in the water and can hold their breath for up to an hour. Eyes situated atop their heads enable them to keep a lookout for prey, while their powerful tails swiftly propel them through the water.

Crocodiles and alligators are top-notch hunters and will eat just about anything they can get their teeth on, from fish and turtles to monkeys and buffalo. With teeth specialized just for spearing, neither family even bothers to chew its food — they swallow large chunks or the entire animal whole.

As if that weren’t scary enough, crocodilians have incredibly powerful senses to detect their prey. Their eyesight above water is top-notch, and thanks to vertical pupils that can open up extra wide to let in additional light, they also have keen night vision. And even though you can’t see their ears, don’t be fooled — these small slits are sensitive enough to hear offspring calling from inside their eggs Even their sense of smell is highly developed due to special organs in their snouts.

Q1) Complete the following sentences. a. Alligatoridae, Crocodylia, and Gavialidae are subgroups of the main group…………………………. b. The …………………….died 65 million years ago.

Q2) Describe the eating habits of crocodiles.

Q3) How sharp are the tears of crocodiles?

Q 4) Find words in the passage that mean a. To drive or push something forward b. The science of classification c. Descent from the ancestors d. Outstanding

A1) a. Alligatoridae, Crocodylia, and Gavialidae are subgroups of the main group Crocodylidae. b. The dinosaurs died 65 million years ago.

A2) Crocodiles are great hunters and can prey on just about anything they can get their teeth on. Whether it is fish or turtles, monkeys or buffaloes, crocodiles swallow large chunks or the entire animal whole since they have teeth specialized just for spearing.

A3) One may not be able to see their ears, but crocodile ears are sensitive enough to hear offspring calling from inside their eggs. A 4) a. Propel b. Taxonomy c. Lineage d. Top-notch e. Offspring

Also, Read Top 10 Unseen Passages

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #3

May in Ayemenem is a hot, brooding month. The days are long and humid. The river shrinks and black crows gorge on bright mangoes in still, dust-green trees. Red bananas ripen. Jackfruits burst. Dissolute bluebottles hum vacuously in the fruity air.

Then they stun themselves against clear windowpanes and die, fatly baffled in the sun. The nights are clear but suffused with sloth and sullen expectations.

But by early June the southwest monsoon breaks and there are three months of wind and water with short spells of sharp, glittering sunshine that thrilled children snatch to play with.

The countryside turns an immodest green. Boundaries blur as tapioca fences take root and bloom. Brick walls turn moss-green. Pepper vines snake up electric poles. Wild creepers burst through laterite banks and spilt across the flooded roads. Boats ply in the bazaars. And small fish appear in the puddles that fill the PWD potholes on the highways. It was raining when Rahel came back to Ayemenem.

Slanting silver ropes slammed into loose earth, ploughing it up like gunfire. The old house on the hill wore its steep, gabled roof pulled over its ears like a low hat. The walls, streaked with moss, had grown soft and bulged a little with dampness that seeped up from the ground. The wild, overgrown garden was full of the whisper and scurry of small lives.

In the undergrowth, a rat snake rubbed itself against a glistening stone. Hopeful yellow bullfrogs cruised the scummy pond for mates. A drenched mongoose flashed across the leaf-strewn driveway. The house itself looked empty. The doors and windows were locked. The front verandah bare. Unfurnished.

But the sky blue Plymouth with chrome tail fins was still parked outside, and inside, Baby Kochamma was still alive. She was Rahel’s baby grandaunt, her grandfather’s younger sister. Her name was really Navomi, Navomi Ipe, but everybody called her Baby. She became Baby Kochamma when she was old enough to be an aunt. Rahel hadn’t come to see her, though.

Neither niece nor baby grandaunt laboured under any illusions on that account. Rahel had come to see her brother, Estha. They were two-egg twins. “Dizygotic’ doctors called them. Born from separate but simultaneously fertilized eggs. Estha Esthappen-was the older by 18 minutes. [Source: Arundhuti Ray’s The God of Small Things]

What happens to the river in May in Ayemenem? Ans: The river shrinks and black crows gorge on bright mangoes in still, dust-green trees.

What happens when the southwest monsoon breaks in early June? Ans: There are three months of wind and water with short spells of sharp, glittering sunshine.

What happens to the countryside when it rains in Ayemenem? Ans: The countryside turns the immodest green. Boundaries blur as tapioca fences take root and bloom.

Who is Baby Kochamma? Ans: Baby Kochamma is Rahel’s baby grandaunt, her grandfather’s younger sister.

Who did Rahel come to see in Ayemenem? Ans: Rahel came to see her brother, Estha.

You Asked, We Listened – Get All Types of Writing List 😍😍

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #4

The Roman Empire was a powerful civilization that ruled much of Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa from the 8th century BC to the 5th century BC. The Romans were known for their military prowess, impressive architecture, and advances in engineering and law. The capital of the Roman Empire was Rome, which was the centre of art, culture and learning.

When did the Roman Empire exist?

Answer: The Roman Empire existed from the 8th century BC to the 5th century AD.

What were the Romans known for?

Answer: The Romans were known for their military prowess, impressive architecture, and advances in engineering and law.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #5

Education is an essential part of our life. It not only helps us acquire knowledge and skills but also helps in building our character and values. Education plays an important role in our personal and professional development and is an investment in our future.

Education has many benefits. It helps us understand the world around us and think critically and creatively. It also gives us the skills we need to succeed in the workforce and contribute to our communities Education can open up new opportunities and give us a sense of accomplishment and self-satisfaction.

Additionally, education helps promote equality and social mobility. It gives individuals the tools and knowledge they need to rise out of poverty and achieve their full potential. Education is also a key factor in reducing discrimination and promoting understanding and tolerance between different cultures and groups.

In short, education is an important part of our lives and has the power to transform individuals and communities.

What is the importance of education in our lives?

Education plays an important role in our personal and professional development and is an investment in our future. It helps us acquire knowledge and skills and shapes our character and values.

Write some benefits of education.

The benefits of education include helping us understand the world around us, think critically and creatively, succeed in the workforce, and contribute to our communities. It can provide us with new opportunities, a sense of accomplishment and self-satisfaction.

How does education promote equality and social mobility?

Education promotes equality and social mobility by giving individuals the tools and knowledge they need to rise out of poverty and achieve their full potential.

How can education change individuals and communities?

Education provides individuals and communities with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed and contribute, and promotes understanding and tolerance between different cultures and groups.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #6

About a hundred years ago, whenever an operation was performed, the patient would cry out in agony because he felt the surgeon cut his flesh. But now serious operations are performed without pain, and thousands of lives are saved. James Simpson was the first to discover and use the pain-killing power of chloroform . James was born into a poor family. So in his childhood, he not only helped his father on holidays but also helped the village doctor.

But he was horrified by the dire suffering of the people who came to the hospital for treatment. He now made it his life’s mission to find new inventions that would prevent so much pain. Simpson did many experiments and finally discovered chloroform. Now the patient is not afraid of the operation.

(a) Who discovered the pain-killing power of chloroform?

James Simpson.

(b) What was James Simpson’s childhood like?

He was born into a poor family and helped his father and the village doctor.

(c) What motivated James Simpson to find new inventions to prevent the pain?

He was horrified by the suffering of people who came to the hospital for treatment.

(d) What did James Simpson finally discover?

Chloroform.

(e) How did the discovery of chloroform impact surgery?

Serious operations could be performed without pain, saving thousands of lives.

Also, Read Short Unseen Passages with Questions and Answers

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #7

When I walked into the doctor’s office, I was feeling a little nervous. I had never been to the doctor on my own before, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. The receptionist greeted me with a warm smile and asked me to sit down. I waited a few minutes before calling the exam room.

The doctor was very friendly and asked me lots of questions about my health and any symptoms I was experiencing. He examined me and did some tests and then gave me some advice on how to take care of myself. He prescribed some medicine for me to take and told me to come back in a week to check my progress.

I left the doctor’s office feeling relieved and grateful for the care I received. It was a good reminder that it is important to take care of our health and seek medical care when we need it.

Why was the speaker feeling nervous when walking into the doctor’s office? Answer: The speaker was feeling nervous because they had never been to the doctor on their own before and didn’t know what to expect.

How did the receptionist greet the speaker? Answer: The receptionist greeted the speaker with a warm smile.

What did the doctor do during the visit? Answer: The doctor asked the speaker about their health and symptoms, examined them, did some tests, and gave them advice on how to take care of themselves.

What did the doctor prescribe for the speaker? Answer: The doctor prescribed some medicine for the speaker to take.

What was the speaker’s overall feeling after the visit to the doctor? Answer: The speaker left the doctor’s office feeling relieved and grateful for the care they received.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #8

In an attempt to eliminate the anti-export bias. Among existing policies, the government has made steady progress since 1991 in eliminating quantitative restrictions, licensing and discretionary controls on imports. Imports of capital goods, raw materials and components are exempted from licences. Tariffs on such imports have been significantly reduced. Tariff categories have been reclassified.

To incentivize domestic producers of capital goods and improve the power situation, the supply of capital goods to the power sector has been made eligible for a refund of terminal excise duty.

To encourage the elimination of child labour, exports of hard-woven carpets and floor coverings were again subject to the production of registration-cum-membership certificates from the Carpet Export Promotion Council.

(a) What is the government attempting to eliminate?

The anti-export bias

(b) What progress has the government made since 1991 in relation to import policies?

The government has made steady progress in eliminating quantitative restrictions, licensing, and discretionary controls on imports.

(c) What imports are exempted from licenses?

Imports of capital goods, raw materials, and components are exempted from licenses.

(d) What has been done to incentivize domestic producers of capital goods and improve the power situation?

The supply of capital goods to the power sector has been made eligible for a refund of terminal excise duty. What export product requires the production of registration-cum-membership certificates from the Carpet Export Promotion Council?

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #9

Florence Nightingale was born on May 12, 1820, in Florence, Italy. Her interest in nursing was evident from childhood. She would then spend time taking care of her injured dolls and animals as she gradually grew into a beautiful young woman and married a wonderful young man to enjoy life.

But she remained unmarried and devoted her life to serving the poor and sick. When the Crimean War broke out between England and Russia. She went to the field with several nurses. There they ministered to sick and wounded soldiers. Florence Nightingale worked there without rest and many a time with a candle in her hand she ministered all night to the poor sick soldiers. Hence, she was known everywhere as “The Lady with the Lamp”.

When was Florence Nightingale born and where?

Florence Nightingale was born on May 12, 1820, in Florence, Italy.

What was Florence Nightingale’s interest from childhood?

Florence Nightingale’s interest in nursing was evident from childhood.

Who did Florence Nightingale marry?

Florence Nightingale remained unmarried and devoted her life to serving the poor and sick.

Where did Florence Nightingale go during the Crimean War?

During the Crimean War, Florence Nightingale went to the field with several nurses to minister to sick and wounded soldiers.

Why was Florence Nightingale known as “The Lady with the Lamp”?

Florence Nightingale was known as “The Lady with the Lamp” because she ministered to the poor sick soldiers with a candle in her hand all night.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #10

After dinner, my friends in the neighbouring rooms in the hostel dropped in as usual for light talk. They were my colleagues. One was Rangappa who taught the boys philosophy, and the other was Gopal of the mathematics section. Gopal was sharp as a knife edge where mathematical matters were concerned, but poor fellow, he was very dumb and stupid in other matters. As a matter of fact, he paid little attention to anything else. We liked him because he was a genius, and in a vague manner, we understood that he was doing brilliant things in mathematics. Some day he hoped to contribute a paper on his subject which was going to revolutionize human thought and conceptions.

But God knew what it was all about. All that I cared for in him was that he was an agreeable friend, who never contradicted and who patiently listened for hours, though without showing any sign of understanding.

The talk was about English spelling and the conference we had with Brown tonight. I was incensed as usual, much to the amazement of Rangappa. “But my dear fellow, what do you think they pay you for unless it is for dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s?” Gopal, who had been listening without putting in a word of his own, suddenly became active.

“I don’t follow you,” he said. “I said the English department existed solely for dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s.” “Oh!” he said, opening wide his eyes. “I never thought so. Why should you do it?” His precise literal brain refused to move where it had no concrete facts or figures to grip. Symbols, if they entered his brain at all, entered only as mathematical symbols.

Rangappa answered: “Look here, Gopal. You have come across the expression ‘Raining cats and dogs’?” “Yes.” “Have you actually seen cats and dogs falling down from the sky?” “No, no. Why?”

Rangappa would have worried him a little longer, but the college clock struck ten and I said: “Friends, I must bid you good night.” “Good night,” Gopal repeated mechanically and rose to go. [Source: R.K. Narayan’s The English Teacher]

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #11

Read the following passage and answer the questions which follow:

It works in me like madness to bid me say goodbye,

For the seas call, and the stars call, and oh! the call of the sky!

I know not where the white road runs, nor what the blue hills are,

But a man can have the sun for a friend, and for his guide a star;

What is the speaker’s reaction to bidding goodbye?

The speaker feels as if it’s madness to say goodbye because of the strong desire to answer the call of the seas, stars, and sky.

(b) Who is calling the poet to say goodbye?

The seas, the stars, the sky, the white road, and the blue hills call the poet.

What does the speaker mean by having “the sun for a friend” and “for his guide a star”?

The speaker means that although he doesn’t know where the white road runs or what the blue hills are, he can rely on the sun and stars to guide him on his journey.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #12

Read the following stanzas and answer the questions which follow:

He gives his harness bells a shake To ask if there is some mistake The only other sound’s the sweep Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep, But I have promises to keep, And miles to go before I sleep, And miles to go before I sleep.

What is the speaker’s reason for stopping in the woods?

Answer: The speaker does not state a specific reason for stopping in the woods.

What is the significance of the harness bells being shaken?

Answer: The shaking of the harness bells suggests that the horse is wondering why they have stopped in the middle of the woods.

What is the tone of the poem?

Answer: The tone of the poem is contemplative and introspective.

What is the meaning of the line “And miles to go before I sleep”?

Answer: This line suggests that the speaker has important commitments or promises that they need to fulfil before they can rest or sleep.

What is the theme of the poem?

Answer: The theme of the poem is the tension between the allure of nature and the responsibilities of life. The speaker is drawn to the beauty of the woods, but also feels a sense of duty to fulfil their promises and complete their journey.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #13

Read the paragraphs and answer the questions which follow:

The Roman Empire was one of the greatest and most influential civilizations in world history. At its height, it spanned three continents and included more than 50 million people. The Romans were known for their military prowess, their sophisticated system of government, and their impressive architectural achievements, including the construction of roads, aqueducts, and public buildings.

The Roman Republic, which lasted from the 6th century BC to the 1st century BC, was a model of governance that influenced many later civilizations. It was a federal system of government that divided power between the Roman Senate and the People’s Assembly.

In the 1st century BC, the Roman Republic was replaced by the Roman Empire, which was ruled by a dictator called the Roman Emperor. The Roman Empire saw the construction of many impressive buildings and the expansion of the Roman military. However, it has also seen numerous internal conflicts, including the rise of various factions vying for power.

Despite these challenges, the Roman Empire was able to endure for more than five centuries, until it finally collapsed in the 5th century. Today, the legacy of the Roman Empire can be seen in the many cultural and architectural achievements it left behind.

How many continents did the Roman Empire span at its height?

The Roman Empire spanned three continents at its height.

What was the Roman Republic known for?

The Roman Republic was known for its sophisticated system of government and its federal system of government that divided power between the Roman Senate and the Assembly of the People.

What replaced the Roman Republic in the 1st century BC?

The Roman Empire replaced the Roman Republic in the 1st century BC.

Who ruled the Roman Empire?

The Roman Empire was ruled by an autocrat called the Roman Emperor.

When did the Roman Empire fall?

The Roman Empire fell in the 5th century AD.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #14

Read the following text and answer the questions given below:

NASA, or the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, is a United States government agency responsible for the nation’s civilian space program and for conducting research in space science. President Dwight D. Eisenhower founded it in 1958 in reply to the Soviet Union launching the first artificial satellite, Sputnik.

Since its inception, NASA has been at the forefront of space exploration and has achieved many significant milestones, including the first human landing on the Moon in 1969 and the development of the International Space Station. In addition to conducting space exploration, NASA conducts research in a variety of fields, including Earth science, planetary science, and astrophysics.

What does NASA stand for?

Answer: NASA stands for National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

What is NASA responsible for?

NASA is responsible for the nation’s civilian space program and for conducting research in space science.

What are some notable milestones achieved by NASA?

Answer: Some of the notable milestones achieved by NASA include the first human landing on the Moon in 1969 and the development of the International Space Station.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #15

Beyond the East the Sunrise; beyond the West the Sea;

And East and West the Wander-Thirst that will not let me be;

It works in me like madness to bid me say good-bye,

And there’s no end of voyaging when once the voice is heard,

For the rivers call, and the road calls, and oh! the call of the bird!

Yonder the long horizon lies, and there by night and day

The old ships draw to home again, the young ships sail away;

And come I may, but go I must, and if men ask you why,

You may put the blame on the stars and the sun, and the white road and the sky.

What is the “Wander-Thirst” mentioned in the poem?

The “Wander-Thirst” is a desire to travel and explore beyond the boundaries of East and West.

What does the speaker mean by “the call of the sky”?

The speaker feels a strong urge to travel and explore, which they describe as “the call of the sky”.

What is the role of the sun and star in the speaker’s travels?

The speaker sees the sun as a friend and the star as a guide in their voyages.

Why do the old ships draw to home again?

The old ships are drawing to home again because their journey is complete, and they are returning to their port of origin.

Why does the speaker say that they must go even if asked to stay?

The speaker is driven by their desire to explore and travel, and they feel compelled to follow “the call of the bird” and other natural forces that beckon them to move forward.

Find the words in the poem that mean the following:

(1) longing (2) over there (3) fix responsibility (4) line at which the earth or sea and sky seem to meet

(1) thirst, (2) yonder, (3) blame, (4) horizon.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #16

Hamlet, the prince of Denmark, was once the happiest young man in the land, but big trouble came into his life. His father suddenly dies mysteriously so Hamlet becomes very sad and upset. Hamlet was told that the old king, who was wise and good, was bitten by a snake one afternoon while sleeping in the garden. Soon after her death Claudius, the dead king’s brother and Hamlet’s uncle married the queen and was now king. Hamlet did not like his mother remarrying so soon and the more he thought about the relationship, the sadder he became.

He didn’t love his evil uncle as much as he loved his father, and it bothered him that his mother had married such a guy because he loved his mother as a dutiful son should. Hamlet slowly begins to wonder whether Claudius killed his father so that he could become king himself and whether his mother knew all about it – and his last thought drives him almost mad.

Who is Hamlet in the story?

Hamlet is the prince of Denmark.

How did Hamlet’s father die?

Hamlet’s father died mysteriously, allegedly bitten by a snake while sleeping in the garden.

Who became the new king after Hamlet’s father died?

Claudius, the dead king’s brother and Hamlet’s uncle, became the new king after Hamlet’s father died.

Why did Hamlet become upset after his mother’s remarriage?

Hamlet didn’t like his mother remarrying so soon and the more he thought about the relationship, the sadder he became.

What did Hamlet begin to suspect about his uncle and mother?

Hamlet began to suspect whether Claudius killed his father so that he could become king himself and whether his mother knew all about it, which drove him almost mad.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #17

Expanding like the petals of young flowers I watch the gentle opening of your minds.

And the sweet loosening of the spell that binds,

Your intellectual energies and powers,

That stretch like young birds in soft summer hours

Their wings, to try their strength, O, how the winds

Of circumstances and freshing April showers

Of early knowledge and unnumbered kinds

Of new perceptions shed their influence;

And how you worship truth’s omnipotence.

What joyance rains upon me, when I see

Fame in the mirror of futurity,

Weaving the chaplets you have yet to gain,

Ah then, I feel I have not lived in vain.

Read the poem above and answer the questions that follow: 1. Answer briefly :

Questions and Answers: Prepare questions and answers and comment

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #18

Who woods these are I think I know.

His house is in the village though.

He will not see me stopping here

To watch his woods fill up with snow

My little horse must think it queer

To stop without a farmhouse near

Between the woods and frozen lake

The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake

To ask if there is some mistake.

The only other sound’s the sweep

Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep,

But I have promises to keep,

And miles to go before I sleep,

And miles to go before I sleep.

  • What time of the year does the poet describe?
  • What does the poet want to see?
  • Why does the horse shake its harness bell?

Answers (1) The poet describes the time from December to February. (2) The poet wants to see the woods fill up with snow. (3) The horse shakes his harness bell to ensure that his master had made a miscalculation in coming to the woods.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #19

Read the stanza given below, and answer the questions that follow:

If you can dream and not make dreams your master

If you can think and not make thoughts your aim; you can meet with Triumph and Disaster

And treat those two impostors just the same;

If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken

Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,

Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,

And stoop and build’em up with worn-out tools.

What is the poem about?

The poem is about the qualities needed to maintain composure in the face of success and failure.

What are the qualities mentioned in the poem?

The qualities mentioned in the poem include the ability to not be controlled by one’s dreams or thoughts, treating triumph and disaster equally, being able to handle criticism, and perseverance.

What is meant by “triumph and disaster” in the poem?

Triumph and disaster refer to success and failure, respectively.

What does the phrase “stoop and build’em up with worn-out tools” mean?

It means to use one’s existing resources and abilities to rebuild something, even if they are old or not ideal.

What is the author trying to convey through the poem?

The author is trying to convey that one must maintain composure and remain grounded in the face of success and failure, and that perseverance and resourcefulness are key to overcoming obstacles.

Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #20

I met a traveller from an antique land Who said:—Two vast and trunkless legs of stone Stand in the desert. Near them on the sand, Half sunk, a shatter’d visage lies, whose frown And wrinkled lip and sneer of cold command Tell that its sculptor well those passions read Which yet survive, stamp’d on these lifeless things, The hand that mock’d them and the heart that fed. And on the pedestal these words appear: “My name is Ozymandias, king of kings: Look on my works, ye mighty, and despair!” Nothing beside remains: round the decay Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare, The lone and level sands stretch far away.

What does the traveller from an antique land describe in the first stanza?

Answer: The traveller describes “two vast and trunkless legs of stone” standing in the desert, near which lies a shattered visage half-sunk in the sand.

What do the features of the shattered visage suggest about the sculpture’s subject?

Answer: The frown, wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command suggest that the subject of the sculpture was a powerful, proud ruler.

What do the words on the pedestal of the sculpture say?

Answer: The words on the pedestal read, “My name is Ozymandias, king of kings: Look on my works, ye mighty, and despair!”

What is the speaker’s tone towards the subject of the poem?

Answer: The speaker’s tone is one of irony and scepticism, as the once-mighty ruler’s grandiose claims have been reduced to a mere relic in the desert.

What is the significance of the final image of “the lone and level sands stretch[ing] far away”?

Answer: The final image underscores the fleeting nature of power and the inevitability of decay and oblivion, as even the grandest monuments eventually crumble and fade into the endless expanse of time.

Reading Comprehension Worksheets

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reading comprehension essay questions

Critical Thinking Reading Comprehension Worksheets

  • Take these as online quizzes here!

Short Story Reading Comprehension Worksheets

  • Beginning Level
  • Answers for this series are included at the end of each worksheet.
  • "My Friend" - Low Beginning. 3 answer choices. 7 questions. 74 words.
  • "My House" - Low Beginning. 3 answer choices. 7 questions. 92 words.
  • "Time to..." - Low Beginning. 4 answer choices. 11 questions. 89 words.
  • "My Family" - Low Beginning. 4 answer choices. 6 questions. 90 words.
  • "Rainy Day" - Low Beginning. 4 answer choices. 5 questions. 78 words.
  • "A Call to the Pool" - Low Beginning. 4 answer choices. 5 questions. 116 words.
  • "The Singing Bird" - Low Beginning. 4 answer choices. 5 questions. 96 words.
  • "Seeing Stars" - Low Beginning. 4 answer choices. 8 questions. 92 words.
  • "I Fly" - Low Beginning. 4 answer choices. 4 questions. 113 words.
  • "The Drive" - Mid Beginning. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 120 words.
  • "Zach's Animals" - Mid Beginning. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 104 words.
  • "Griffin's Talents" - Mid Beginning. 4 answer choices. 9 questions. 112 words.
  • "A Happy Visitor" - Mid Beginning. 4 answer choices. 5 questions. 170 words.
  • "An Adventure" - Mid Beginning. 4 answer choices. 5 questions. 177 words.
  • "Running" - Mid Beginning. 4 answer choices. 5 questions. 148 words.
  • "Paul Cooks" - Mid Beginning. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 112 words.
  • "Bella Hides" - Mid Beginning. 4 answer choices. 8 questions. 135 words.
  • "First Prize" - Mid Beginning. 4 answer choices. 8 questions. 155 words.
  • "What Number?" - Mid Beginning. 4 answer choices. 12 questions. 154 words.
  • "The Interview" - High Beginning. 4 answer choices. 9 questions. 205 words.
  • "Julian's Work" - High Beginning. 4 answer choices. 12 questions. 194 words.
  • "Talia's Special Day" - High Beginning. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 204 words.
  • "One Hundred Dollars" - High Beginning. 4 answer choices. 13 questions. 273 words.
  • "New Shoes for Maddy" - High Beginning. 4 answer choices. 11 questions. 223 words.
  • "The 20" - High Beginning. 4 answer choices. 12 questions. 256 words.
  • "Big City Noise" - High Beginning. 4 answer choices. 13 questions. 238 words.
  • Intermediate Level
  • "By the Water" - Low Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 9 questions. 225 words.
  • "A Cold Day" - Low Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 14 questions. 286 words.
  • "Vet Emergency!" - Low Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 247 words.
  • "Late" - Low Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 14 questions. 284 words.
  • "The Brenners" - Low Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 13 questions. 297 words.
  • "Bullied" - Low Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 13 questions. 197 words.
  • "The New School" - Low Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 14 questions. 286 words.
  • "The Park" - Low Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 11 questions. 297 words.
  • "Worth Working For" - Mid Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 280 words.
  • "The Rent Man" - Mid Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 12 questions. 215 words.
  • "Time with Grandpa" - Mid Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 9 questions. 237 words.
  • "The Bus Driver" - Mid Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 15 questions. 294 words.
  • "A Day Like No Other" - Mid Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 12 questions. 305 words.
  • "A Mystery" - Mid Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 247 words.
  • "Just One Touch" - Mid Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 15 questions. 326 words.
  • "Wanga" - Mid Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 13 questions. 340 words.
  • "Ana Finds an Apartment" - Mid Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 12 questions. 408 words.
  • "Guermo's Surprise" - High Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 9 questions. 372 words .
  • "Canopy of Nature" - High Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 8 questions. 332 words .
  • "Blizzard in Birmingham" - High Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 319 words.
  • "A Christmas in March" - High Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 385 words.
  • "Bail" - High Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 301 words.
  • "Clean Water Act" - High Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 632 words.
  • "BB" - High Intermediate. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 511 words .
  • Advanced Level
  • "The Mini Problem" - Low Advanced. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 291 words .
  • "Flower Power" - Low Advanced. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 368 words.
  • "Seeing Clearly" - Low Advanced. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 284 words .
  • "Accused" - Low Advanced. 4 answer choices. 12 questions. 285 words.
  • "City Girl" - Low Advanced. 4 answer choices. 13 questions. 429 words.
  • "Fried" - Mid Advanced. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 235 words.
  • "Tattoo" - Mid Advanced. 4 answer choices. 11 questions. 350 words.
  • "The Transfers" - Mid Advanced. 4 answer choices. 12 questions. 381 words.
  • "Wild" - Mid Advanced. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 493 words.
  • "Scorpion" - Low Advanced. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 333 words
  • "Remains of a Marriage" - Mid Advanced. 4 answer choices. 11 questions. 345 words.
  • "Museum Hours" - Mid Advanced. 4 answer choices. 10 questions. 179 words.
  • "Seeing Through" - High Advanced. 5 answer choices. 10 questions. 326 words.
  • "Ursula Pugh" - High Advanced. 5 answer choices. 8 questions. 324 words.
  • "Dreams" - High Advanced. 4 answer choices. 12 questions. 357 words.
  • "Tracks" - High Advanced. 5 answer choices. 11 questions. 531 words.
  • "Love Train" - High Advanced. 5 answer choices. 12 questions. 646 words.
  • "The Storm" - High Advanced. 4 answer choices. 12 questions. 407 words.

Informational Passages Reading Comprehension Worksheets

In these reading comprehension worksheets, students are asked questions about information they have read about a specific topic. each passage reads similar to a newspaper of journal article, and provides interesting information about some aspect of history, nature, mechanics, science, art, and more. questions involve critical thinking with a focus on logic and inference..

  • Answer Key - This answer key is available but still under development.
  • "The Sun" - Low Beginning. 3 questions. Under 50 words.
  • "Gas" - Low Beginning. 3 questions. Under 50 words.
  • "Music" - Low Beginning. 4 questions. Under 50 words.
  • "Birds" - Low Beginning. 4 questions. Under 50 words.
  • "The Heart" - Low Beginning. 4 questions. Under 50 words.
  • "The Butterfly" - Low Beginning. 5 questions. Under 50 words.
  • "Pigs" - Low Beginning. 3 questions. Under 50 words.
  • "The Brain" - Low Beginning. 3 questions. Under 50 words.
  • "The Ocean" - Low Beginning. 7 questions. Under 100 words.
  • "Trees" - Low Beginning. 4 questions. Under 100 words.
  • "Alligators" - Low Beginning. 6 questions. Under 100 words.
  • "The Blow-Dryer" - Low Beginning. 5 questions. Under 100 words.
  • "Green Grass" - Low Beginning. 6 questions. Under 100 words.
  • "Taste" - Low Beginning. 4 questions. Under 100 words.
  • "Bees" - Mid Beginning. 10 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "Frogs" - Mid Beginning. 10 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "Beds" - Mid Beginning. 10 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "Humans" - Mid Beginning. 10 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "Fish" - Mid Beginning. 10 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "Houses" - Mid Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Soda Pop" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "Tea" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "Ice Fishing" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Bears" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Flags" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Leonardo Da Vinci" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words..
  • "Tennis" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Dogs" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Money" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Abraham Lincoln" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Corn" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Umbrellas" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Ben Franklin" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Cars" - High Beginning. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • Answer Key - This is the answer key for to the intermediate level informational passages.
  • "Helicopters" - Low Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Yellowstone National Park" - Low Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Empress of the Blues" - Low Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "The Cactus" - Low Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Space Exploration Voyagers 1 and 2" - Mid Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Television" - Mid Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Hibernation and Estivation" - Mid Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Marco Polo" - Mid Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Movie Ratings" - Mid Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Birdsongs" - Mid Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Counting" - Mid Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Easter Island" - High Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Mosquitoes" - High Intermediate. 12 questions. Under 700 words.
  • "Fingerprints" - High Intermediate. 11 questions. Under 700 words.
  • "Mother's Day" - High Intermediate. 10 questions. Under 700 words.
  • "Europe" - High Intermediate. 12 questions. Under 700 words.
  • Answer Key - This is the answer key for to the advanced level informational passages.
  • "Chocolate" - Low Advanced. 10 questions. Under 600 words.
  • "Houses Around the World" - Low Advanced. 10 questions. Under 700 words.
  • "Cells" - Low Advanced. 10 questions. Under 700 words.
  • "Soccer" - Low Advanced. 12 questions. Under 700 words.
  • "Bathtubs" - Low Advanced. 12 questions. Under 700 words.
  • "Pollution" - Low Advanced. 12 questions. Under 700 words.
  • "Interstate Highways" - Low Advanced. 10 questions. Under 800 words.
  • "The U.S. Census" - Low Advanced. 10 questions. Under 800 words.
  • "Sleep" - Low Advanced. 11 questions. Under 800 words.
  • "The U.S. Postal Service" - Mid Advanced. 11 questions. Under 800 words.
  • "Chemical Elements" - Mid Advanced. 11 questions. Under 800 words.
  • "Africa" - Mid Advanced. 11 questions. Under 1000 words.

Technical Reading Comprehension Worksheets

In these reading comprehension worksheets, students are asked questions about the meaning, significance, intention, structure, inference, and vocabulary used in each passage. each passage reads like an encyclopedic or technical journal article. answers for worksheets in this section can be found at the end of each individual worksheet..

  • "Water" - Beginning level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 300 words.
  • "Paper" - Beginning level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 300 words.
  • "The Flu" - Beginning level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 400 words.
  • "Nuts" - Beginning level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 400 words.
  • "The Sun" - Beginning level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 400 words.
  • "The White House" - Beginning level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 400 words.
  • "Soap" - Intermediate level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 400 words.
  • "Clocks" - Intermediate level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 400 words.
  • "The Robin" - Intermediate level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 400 words.
  • "Hybrid Vehicles" - Intermediate level. 4 questions with answers included. Under 500 words.
  • "Photography" - Intermediate level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 500 words.
  • "Biomimetics" - Intermediate level. 4 questions with answers included. Under 700 words.
  • "The Great Debates" - Intermediate level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 400 words.
  • "Salt" - Advanced level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 700 words.
  • "Colony Collapse" - Advanced level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 600 words.
  • "Columbian Exchange" - Advanced level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 700 words.
  • "Ethanol" - Advanced level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 600 words.
  • "Generations" - Advanced level. 3 questions with answers included. Under 600 words.
  • "The Hubble Telescope" - Advanced level. 7 questions with answers included. Under 1000 words.
  • "Intellegence Augmentation" - Advanced level. 5 questions with answers included. Under 1000 words.

Role Play Reading Comprehension Worksheets

In these reading comprehension worksheets, students can increase their understanding of colloquial and idiomatic expressions and get a feel for conversational english. they also allow several students to participate at the same time - which makes them really fun great for use in school or at home..

  • Answer Key - This is the answer key to the role play worksheets.
  • "What Time Is It?" - Beginning Level. 4 questions. Under 100 words.
  • "How Are You?" - Beginning Level. 4 questions. Under 100 words.
  • "Tie Your Shoes!" - Beginning Level. 4 questions. Under 100 words.
  • "Where Are My Glasses?" - Beginning Level. 4 questions. Under 100 words.
  • "A Cookie" - Beginning Level. 4 questions. Under 100 words.
  • "Where Are My Keys?" - Beginning Level. 4 questions. Under 100 words.
  • "City Life, Country Life" - Beginning Level. 10 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "Flu Shot" - Intermediate Level. 5 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "Vinegar" - Intermediate Level. 4 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "Wait for Me!" - Intermediate Level. 8 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Glasses" - Intermediate Level. 8 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Hungry" - Advanced Level. 8 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Want to Know a Secret?" - Advanced Level. 8 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "Milk and Aesthetics" - Advanced Level. 8 questions. Under 500 words.

Dual Version Reading Comprehension Worksheets

In each of these reading comprehension worksheets, the same story is told, but with two versions: one that is basic, and one that is more advanced. this allows students to make direct comparisons between the advanced version to the more basic one, and makes for a powerful learning experience..

  • Answer Key - Coming Soon!
  • "An Overcast Day" - Beginning Level. 4 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "Who Knows My Name?" - Beginning Level. 4 questions. Under 200 words.
  • "A Call to the Pool" - Beginning Level. 6 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Oh No!" - Beginning Level. 8 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "An Adventure" - Beginning Level. 6 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Happy Birthday" - Beginning Level. 4 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "My Family" - Beginning Level. 8 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "My Family" - Beginning Level. 5 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Driving Directions" - Beginning Level. 6 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "A Happy Visitor" - Beginning Level. 7 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "The Singing Bird" - Intermediate Level. 10 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "Violet Makes a Cake" - Intermediate Level. 8 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "A Visit to the Doctor" - Intermediate Level. 7 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "Making Dinner" - Intermediate Level. 8 questions. Under 400 words.
  • "The Market" - Intermediate Level. 10 questions. Under 500 words.
  • "Maria Gets Her License" - Intermediate Level. 8 questions. Under 500 words.
  • "A Paper for School" - Advanced Level. 7 questions. Under 300 words.
  • "A Birthday Surprise" - Advanced Level. 7 questions. Under 600 words.
  • "Getting a New Job" - Advanced Level. 8 questions. Under 600 words.
  • "The Dinner Party" - Advanced Level. 9 questions. Under 600 words.

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reading comprehension essay questions

Reading is a skill many people take for granted, but the act of reading and properly comprehending a text is a complex and interactive process. It requires several different brain functions to work together and most often requires one to puzzle through multiple layers of context and meaning.

Because reading comprehension is so complicated, we can often find ourselves understanding the most basic interpretation of a text, but missing the emotional core or the "big picture." Or we might just find our brains spinning with no clue at all as to what a text is attempting to convey.

But luckily for everyone who struggles in English classes, on standardized tests, or in daily life, reading comprehension can be improved upon (and it's never too late to start!). In this guide, I explain step-by-step how to improve reading comprehension over time and offer tips for boosting your understanding as you read.

What Is Reading Comprehension?

Reading comprehension is the understanding of what a particular text means and the ideas the author is attempting to convey, both textual and subtextual. In order to read any text, your brain must process not only the literal words of the piece, but also their relationship with one another, the context behind the words, how subtle language and vocabulary usage can impact emotion and meaning behind the text, and how the text comes together as a larger, coherent whole.

For instance, let's look at the first line from Jane Austen's novel, Pride and Prejudice :

"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife."

Now, a completely literal interpretation of the text, just based on word-meaning, would have us believe that 'all rich men want wives.' But the context, word choice, and phrasing of the text actually belie that interpretation. By using the phrases "universally acknowledged" and " must be in want of" (emphasis ours), the text is conveying a subtle sarcasm to the words. Instead of it being an actual truth that 'rich men want wives,' this one sentence instantly tells us that we're reading about a society preoccupied with marriage, while also implying that the opening statement is something people in that society may believe, but that isn't necessarily true.

In just a few short words, Austen conveys several ideas to the reader about one of the main themes of the story, the setting, and what the culture and people are like. And she does so all the while seeming to contradict the literal words of the piece.

Without practice in reading comprehension, nuances like these can become lost. And so it can happen that someone may find themselves reading, but not truly comprehending the full meaning of a text.

As you can see, reading comprehension involves many processes happening in your brain at once, and thus it can be easy for some aspects of a text to get lost in the muddle. But the good news for anyone who struggles is that reading comprehension is a skill just like any other. It must be learned through practice, focus, and diligence, but it absolutely CAN be learned.

Why Reading Comprehension Is Important

Proper reading comprehension can be difficult, so why bother? Even though learning how to properly read and comprehend texts is a complicated process, it is a necessary skill to master, both for work and for pleasure.

You will need to know how to read and interpret all kinds of different texts—both on the basic, literal level and on a more in-depth level—throughout your schooling, in college, and in the working world (as well as in your recreation time!). If we think about "reading" just as a literal or surface understanding of a piece and "reading comprehension" as the complete understanding, a person can only get by in the world on pure "reading" for so long.

Reading comprehension is essential for many significant aspects of daily life, such as:

  • Reading, understanding, and analyzing literature in your English classes
  • Reading and understanding texts from your other class subjects, such as history, math, or science
  • Doing well on both the written and math sections of the SAT (or all five sections of the ACT)
  • Understanding and engaging with current events presented in written form, such as news reports
  • Properly understanding and responding to any and all other workplace correspondence, such as essays, reports, memos, and analyses
  • Simply taking pleasure in written work on your own leisure time

reading comprehension essay questions

Just like with any goal or skill, we can master reading comprehension one step at a time.

How to Improve Reading Comprehension: 3 Steps

Because reading comprehension is a skill that improves like any other, you can improve your understanding with practice and a game plan.

Dedicate yourself to engaging in a combination of both "guided" and "relaxed" reading practice for at least two to three hours a week. Guided practice will involve structure and focused attention, like learning new vocabulary words and testing yourself on them, while relaxed practice will involve merely letting yourself read and enjoy reading without pressure for at least one to two hours a week. (Note: if you already read for pleasure, add at least one more hour of pleasure-reading per week.)

By combining reading-for-studying and reading-for-pleasure, you'll be able to improve your reading skill without relegating reading time to the realm of "work" alone. Reading is a huge part of our daily lives, and improving your comprehension should never come at the cost of depriving yourself of the pleasure of the activity.

So what are some of the first steps for improving your reading comprehension level?

Step 1: Understand and Reevaluate How You're Currently Reading

Before you can improve your reading comprehension, you must first understand how you're currently reading and what your limitations are.

Start by selecting excerpts from different texts with which you are unfamiliar—text books, essays, novels, news reports, or any kind of text you feel you particularly struggle to understand—and read them as you would normally. As you read, see if you can notice when your attention, energy, or comprehension of the material begins to flag.

If your comprehension or concentration tends to lag after a period of time, start to slowly build up your stamina. For instance, if you continually lose focus at the 20 minute mark every time you read, acknowledge this and push yourself to slowly increase that time, rather than trying to sit and concentrate on reading for an hour or two at a stretch. Begin by reading for your maximum amount of focused time (in this case, twenty minutes), then give yourself a break. Next time, try for 22 minutes. Once you've mastered that, try for 25 and see if you can still maintain focus. If you can, then try for thirty.

If you find that your concentration or comprehension starts to lag again , take a step back on your timing before pushing yourself for more. Improvement comes with time, and it'll only cause frustration if you try to rush it all at once.

Alternatively, you may find that your issues with reading comprehension have less to do with the time spent reading than with the source material itself. Perhaps you struggle to comprehend the essential elements of a text, the context of a piece, character arcs or motivation, books or textbooks with densely packed information, or material that is heavily symbolic. If this is the case, then be sure to follow the tips below to improve these areas of reading comprehension weakness.

Improving your reading comprehension level takes time and practice, but understanding where your strengths and weaknesses stand now is the first step towards progress.

Step 2: Improve Your Vocabulary

Reading and comprehension rely on a combination of vocabulary, context, and the interaction of words. So you must be able to understand each moving piece before you can understand the text as a whole.

If you struggle to understand specific vocabulary, it's sometimes possible to pick up meaning through context clues (how the words are used in the sentence or in the passage), but it's always a good idea to look up the definitions of words with which you aren't familiar. As you read, make sure to keep a running list of words you don't readily recognize and make yourself a set of flashcards with the words and their definitions. Dedicate fifteen minutes two or three times a week to and quizzing yourself on your vocab flashcards.

To get started, you'll need some blank index cards and a system to keep them organized. These basic cards are an affordable option that are also available in fun colors . You can keep them organized with plastic baggies or rubber bands, or you can get an organizer .

Alternatively, try these easy-flip flashcards that include binder clips. Though we strongly recommend making your own flashcards, you can also buy pre-made ones —the best option is Barron's 1100 Words You Need to Know , a series of exercises to master key words and idioms.

In order to retain your vocabulary knowledge, you must employ a combination of practiced memorization (like studying your flashcards) and make a point of using these new words in your verbal and written communication. Guided vocabulary practice like this will give you access to new words and their meanings as well as allow you to properly retain them.

Step 3: Read for Pleasure

The best way to improve your reading comprehension level is through practice. And the best way to practice is to have fun with it!

Make reading a fun activity, at least on occasion, rather than a constant chore. This will motivate you to engage with the text and embrace the activity as part of your daily life (rather than just your study/work life). As you practice and truly engage with your reading material, improvement will come naturally.

Begin by reading texts that are slightly below your age and grade level (especially if reading is frustrating or difficult for you). This will take pressure off of you and allow you to relax and enjoy the story. Here are some fun, easy reads that we recommend to get you started:

  • Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roksani Chokshi
  • Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
  • Ghost   by Jason Reynolds
  • The Westing Game by Ellen Rankin
  • From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
  • The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson
  • I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
  • Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone   by J.K .Rowling

Once you feel more comfortable reading and practicing your comprehension strategies (tips in the next section), go ahead and allow yourself to read at whatever reading or age level you feel like. Even if you feel that you don't understand some of the text right now—or even a large portion of it!—if you enjoy yourself and give it your best shot, you'll find that your reading comprehension levels will improve over time.

reading comprehension essay questions

Reading these problematic passages aloud can often help circumvent that block and help you to form a visual of what the text is trying to convey.

Tip 3: Re-read (or Skim) Previous Sections of the Text

For the most part, reading is a personal activity that happens entirely in your head. So don't feel you have to read just like anyone else if "typical" methods don't work for you. Sometimes it can make the most sense to read (or re-read) a text out of order.

It is often helpful to glance backwards through a piece of text (or even re-read large sections) to remind yourself of any information you need and have forgotten—what happened previously, what a particular word means, who a person was...the list is endless.

Previous sentences, sections, or even whole chapters can provide helpful context clues. Re-reading these passages will help to refresh your memory so that you can better understand and interpret later sections of the text.

Tip 4: Skim or Read Upcoming Sections of the Text

Just like with the previous step, don't feel that the only way to read and understand a text is to work through it completely linearly. Allow yourself the freedom to take apart the text and put it back together again in whichever way makes the most sense to you.

Sometimes a current confusion in a work will be explained later on in the text, and it can help you to know that explanations are upcoming or even just to read them ahead of time.

So skip forward or backwards, re-read or read ahead as you need to, take the piece in whatever order you need to in order to make sense of the text. Not everyone thinks linearly, and not everyone best understands texts linearly either.

Tip 5: Discuss the Text With a Friend (Even an Imaginary Friend)

Sometimes discussing what you know so far about a text can help clear up any confusion. If you have a friend who hasn't read the text in question, then explain it to them in your own words, and discuss where you feel your comprehension is lacking. You'll find that you've probably understood more than you think once you've been forced to explain it to someone who's completely unfamiliar with the piece.

Even if no one else is in the room, trying to teach or discuss what a passage says or means with "someone else" can be extremely beneficial. In fact, software engineers call this technique "rubber duck debugging," wherein they explain a coding problem to a rubber duck. This forces them to work through a problem aloud, which has proven time and time again to help people solve problems. So if a piece of text has your head spinning from trying to work through it by yourself, start chatting with your nearest friend/pet/rubber duck. You'll be surprised with how much easier it is to understand a text once you've talked it through with someone.

Even if that someone is a duck.

reading comprehension essay questions

The Take-Aways

Improving reading comprehension takes time and effort, but it can be done. Be patient with yourself, work through your reading comprehension steps, and try not to get frustrated with yourself if you feel your progress is slow or if you feel you're "falling behind." You will utilize your reading skills throughout your life, so go at a pace that works for you, and take care to maintain that balance between reading for pure pleasure and reading for dedicated improvement.

As you begin to incorporate more and more reading into your daily life, you'll find that comprehension will become easier, and reading will become more fun. In every piece of text, there are worlds of meaning to explore, and learning how to uncover them can be the ultimate rewarding journey.

What's Next?

Can't get enough reading? Whether as part of your reading practice or just for fun, check out our picks for the 31 best books to read in high school.

Problems with procrastination? Whether you're studying for the SAT's or studying your reading comprehension vocabulary check out how to beat procrastination and get your studies back on track.

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Courtney scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT in high school and went on to graduate from Stanford University with a degree in Cultural and Social Anthropology. She is passionate about bringing education and the tools to succeed to students from all backgrounds and walks of life, as she believes open education is one of the great societal equalizers. She has years of tutoring experience and writes creative works in her free time.

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Reading Worksheets, Spelling, Grammar, Comprehension, Lesson Plans

Reading Comprehension Worksheets Grades 1 - 10

Use our free, printable reading comprehension passage exercises to improve your student's reading skills! Recognizing letters and words is an important first step in learning to read. However, it is only a first step; it is vital that students comprehend, or understand, what they are reading. They must be able to get the meaning of the text: What is the author telling the reader? This is reading comprehension, and it is an essential skill for success in school and in the real world. Below are our reading comprehension worksheets grouped by grade, that include passages and related questions. Click on the title to view the printable activities in each grade range, or to read the details of each worksheet. They are free for use in the home or in the classroom. Be sure to check out our spelling words  activities too!

1st Grade Reading Comprehension Worksheets

reading comprehension essay questions

This 36 week first grade worksheet program for reading comprehension provides grade-appropriate passages and related questions, and can be used for other grades as appropriate.

2nd Grade Reading Comprehension Worksheets

reading comprehension essay questions

This 36 week second grade worksheet program for reading comprehension provides passages and questions that are grade appropriate, but can be used with additional grades.

3rd Grade Reading Comprehension Worksheets

reading comprehension essay questions

The 36 week third grade worksheet program for reading comprehension that we’ve organized here provides reading passages and activities designed for 3rd grade but can be used for other grades.

4th Grade Reading Comprehension Worksheets

reading comprehension essay questions

The 36 week fourth grade comprehension program that is included here provides reading passages and questions that are grade appropriate, but can be used with additional grades.

5th Grade Reading Comprehension Worksheets

reading comprehension essay questions

The 36 week fifth grade comprehension program provides passages and related questions that are grade appropriate, but can be used with additional grades.

6th Grade Reading Comprehension Worksheets

reading comprehension essay questions

7th Grade Reading Comprehension Worksheets

reading comprehension essay questions

8th Grade Reading Comprehension Worksheets

reading comprehension essay questions

9th - 10th Grade Reading Comprehension Worksheets

reading comprehension essay questions

GMAT Prep Online Guides and Tips

The 9 best gmat reading comprehension practice resources.

reading comprehension essay questions

Concerned about the reading comprehension questions on the GMAT? Don’t worry! They may be tricky at first, but with a little practice you’ll know exactly how to tackle them.

In this article, I’ll go over the best official and unofficial practice resources for GMAT reading comprehension practice , as well as the three top preparation tips to make sure you’re ready to ace these questions on test day.

How to Study for Reading Comprehension on the GMAT

Reading comprehension questions are part of the verbal section on the GMAT, along with sentence correction and critical reasoning questions. Out of 36 total questions on the GMAT, to be completed in 65 minutes, usually around 9 or 10 of them are reading comprehension passages.

Each reading comprehension passage is 200-250 words (a short passage) or 300-350 words (long). GMAT RC passages cover areas like the natural and social sciences, the humanities, and business (advertising, economics, marketing, etc.). Each passage is accompanied by three to four questions, which test you on identifying and analyzing main ideas, evidence, inferences, and tone.

There are two ways to prepare for reading comprehension questions on the GMAT. The first is to read outside high-level materials, such as The New York Times, Science, and the New Yorker , on relevant topics. This will help you practice the main skill required to succeed on reading comprehension questions: efficiently analyzing passages for content (understanding what’s being said or argued), specific details, persuasion techniques (how the author makes his/her argument or gets the point across), and tone (the author’s attitude towards the subject), for example.

Not sure how or what to study? Confused by how to improve your score in the shortest time possible? We've created the only Online GMAT Prep Program that identifies your strengths and weaknesses, customizes a study plan, coaches you through lessons and quizzes, and adapts your study plan as you improve.

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The second way to prepare is to practice with high-quality questions —ones that are similar in content, tone, and length to ones on the actual GMAT.

Let’s go over the best official and unofficial resources for GMAT reading comprehension practice.

GMAT Reading Comprehension Practice Tests and Questions: Official Resources

Official resources are those produced and written by the Graduate Management Admissions Council (GMAC). They are definitely the best place to start when you’re looking to improve your GMAT score. For each official resource, I’ll go over its format, content, and cost, the pros and cons of using it, and how to make the most effective use of each resource in your reading comprehension prep.

GMATPrep Software

The official GMATPrep Software contains two, full-length computerized adaptive tests, along with additional practice questions . All practice questions have detailed answer explanations.

Cost: Free with an account at mba.com

Pros: Official practice questions, detailed answer explanations, and the option of customizing your practice sessions by question type: There’s a lot to appreciate about the GMATPrep Software in terms of simulating the conditions of the real exam.

Cons: There aren’t any major cons to using the official software. While the practice questions are high quality, however, there aren’t a ton of them, so you’ll have to supplement elsewhere.

How to Use It: Use one of the two computerized adaptive tests as a diagnostic test to determine your starting point . You can also choose a set of up to 15 reading comprehension questions at a time to take as a quiz and save questions you struggled with to review later.

GMATPrep Software

The GMAT Official Guide

The GMAT Official Guide 2018 includes 900 practice questions, including a 100-question diagnostic test , as well as an in-depth look at effective strategies for each GMAT question type. With your purchase, you also get access to a companion website with customizable quizzes. You can use the companion website to set up drills and practice question sets for yourself throughout your prep.

Cost: $45.95

Pros: Questions are organized in order of difficulty , so you can easily sort them out to target your practice towards a certain difficulty level.

Cons: If you have a previous edition of the Official Guide, you’ll get 61 new verbal practice questions in this one, but a lot of the material overlaps.

How to Use It: The GMAT Official Guide is great for 1) an overview of the exam near the beginning of your prep and 2) developing your personal strategies for each question type .

The GMAT Official Guide Verbal Review 2018

The GMAT Official Guide Verbal Review 2018 contains test-taking strategies specific to reading comprehension, sentence correction, and critical reasoning questions, as well as 300 verbal practice questions with answer explanations, all organized in order of difficulty. Your purchase will also allow you to customize practice sessions at a companion website by difficulty, question type, and skill tested, so you can hone in on your particular weaknesses.

Cost: $19.95

Pros: You’ll find official practice questions here that you won’t get anywhere else, and customized practice sets will allow you to focus on reading comprehension questions and on particular difficulty levels, depending on your goals.

Cons: The main downside to this book in terms of reading comprehension practice is its lack of hard questions. There are many reading comprehension passages in the easy and medium categories, but very few hard ones. So if you’re already scoring at 700 or above and looking for a challenge, this might not be the best resource.

How to Use It: Use the strategies here to develop your own approaches to reading comprehension questions. This resource is especially helpful as a comprehensive overview once you’ve taken an initial diagnostic test.

GMAT Paper Tests

The GMAT Paper Tests come in three sets (I, II, and III) of full-length, paper-based tests, all available in downloadable PDF format. Each set contains three practice GMATs.

Cost: $29.99 for each set of three tests

Pros: These are nine real retired GMATs. More than half of the questions on them are only available in these tests (some questions are in former editions of the Official Guide for GMAT Review), making them especially valuable if you’re after some extra practice with high-quality questions.

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Cons: The main downside of using the paper tests is, of course, that they’re on paper and thus aren’t don’t mimic the format of the actual GMAT. They aren’t computerized adaptive tests; you’ll have to time them yourself, and answer explanations are not included.

How to Use It: The GMAT Paper Tests are great for additional official, GMAC-authored practice in reading comprehension. Don’t use them to gauge your progress , as tests that aren’t in computerized adaptive format are not necessarily helpful for that purpose.

The GMAT Paper Tests can't simulate the exact conditions of the exam, but using official practice questions can always be helpful.

GMATPrep Exam Packs 1 and 2 and GMATPrep Question Pack 1

The GMATPrep Exam Packs, which you can only download if you already have the GMATPrep Software installed, contain 90 additional real GMAT questions . GMATPrep Question Pack 1 includes 404 additional practice questions, including 180 verbal practice questions. Both the Exam Packs and Question Pack are available to download in PDF form.

Cost: $49.99 for each Exam Pack; $29.99 for Question Pack 1

Pros: Additional practice questions written by GMAC are always a big pro in GMAT study sessions. Enhanced score reporting gives you an in-depth breakdown of the kinds of questions (in terms of difficulty and question type) you’re getting wrong in each section.

Cons: There aren’t many cons to using these except the cost. Official practice questions are always helpful.

How to Use It: Use the Exam Packs to gauge your progress and how your score fluctuates as you study. The Question Pack allows you to create custom sets of practice questions, so use this to focus on a certain question type.

GMAT Reading Comprehension Practice Tests and Questions: Unofficial Resources

Unofficial resources can be helpful supplements to your test prep, with additional GMAT reading comprehension sample questions. For each resource, as with the official resources, I’ll go over its format, content, pros and cons, as well as the best way to use it.

Aristotle Prep Reading Comprehension Grail

A comprehensive guide to reading comprehension questions, Aristotle Prep Reading Comprehension Grail contains  60 practice reading comprehension passages and over 200 practice questions with answer explanations .

Pros: Aristotle Prep offers more GMAT reading comprehension sample questions than many other unofficial resources (which tend to be heavier on the strategy, lighter on the practice), so you’ll get more bang for your buck. Passages are similar in content, length, and tone to the real GMAT. The passages are divided into easy, medium, and high difficulty levels, so you can structure your practice sessions around your current level.

Cons: If you’re looking for in-depth test-taking strategies, this isn’t your best bet, as it’s not the book’s main focus.

How to Use It: Aristotle Prep should be used mainly for extra practice questions, as these are high-quality. This resource is also especially helpful for students already scoring a 700 or higher , as there are many difficult reading comprehension passages (a rarity in GMAT prep resources).

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Manhattan Prep GMAT Reading Comprehension Strategy Guide

The Manhattan Prep RC Strategy Guide contains a detailed guide to breaking down and analyzing each kind of reading comprehension question, and is heavy on test-taking strategies and practical tips . Purchasing the RC Strategy Guide also gives you a year’s access to Manhattan Prep’s online GMAT question bank and other online resources, including six full-length practice tests.

Cost: $26 in print; $32 ebook

Pros: If you’re unsure of how to break down a passage into smaller chunks to analyze it, Manhattan Prep is for you. This guide doesn’t skim over anything. Instead, it will help you understand the different parts of every GMAT reading comprehension passage in detail.

Cons: The strategy guide itself doesn’t contain that many practice questions , especially compared to some of the other resources on this list. However, combined with the online resources, you can get plenty of practice out of Manhattan Prep.

How to Use It: Manhattan Prep is a great source for in-depth, step-by-step question type strategies and breakdowns of each question type . It’s a good source for figuring out what strategies you plan to use on the verbal section.

PowerScore GMAT Reading Comprehension Bible

The PowerScore GMAT Reading Comprehension Bible offers an in-depth breakdown of each kind of GMAT reading comprehension passage and question, as well as drills in each skill area relevant to reading comprehension questions. Your purchase will also give you access to a website with additional practice drills and questions.

Cost: $34.99

Pros: PowerScore offers one of the most in-depth guides out there to analyzing reading comprehension passages. Heavily strategy-focused, the RC Bible offers a variety of different techniques for approaching different kinds of reading comprehension questions. The concept drills will also allow you to hone in on the specific skill sets you need to beef up.

Cons: There’s more focus on strategy here than on practice, so you’ll need to look elsewhere for practice sessions.

How to Use It: Use PowerScore near the beginning of your prep to help you decide on what kinds of approaches might work for you when tackling reading comprehension questions. Try out the various strategies as you complete practice questions or take practice tests.

Veritas Prep GMAT Question Bank

The Veritas Prep GMAT Question Bank contains thousands of practice questions that you can customize into practice quizzes and review later.

Cost: Free with an account

Pros: The reading comprehension questions are high-quality and written in a similar style to official GMAT RC passages, and you can focus on reading comprehension with the option to customize practice sets by difficulty and question type. You’ll also never see the same question twice, unless you save them to review them later.

Cons: The questions aren’t adaptive, so they can’t be used to reliably track your progress in terms of your score. You’ll only see how you do on certain question types over time and in comparison to other Veritas Prep users.

How to Use It: The question bank is great for regularly scheduled practice sessions, both short and long. Use it throughout your GMAT prep to brush up on certain question types.

3 GMAT Reading Comprehension Practice Tips

When you study, study smart! Blindly completing a lot of reading comprehension practice questions won’t be enough to boost your skills in this area. Instead, follow the three tips below to study effectively for reading comprehension on the GMAT.

#1: Try Out Different Strategies

There are a lot of test-taking strategies out there, and tons of resources that will tell you the definitive way to approach GMAT RC passages. But the only definitive strategy is the one that works for you.

As you study, choose techniques to try as you learn to break down and analyze passages. In your practice sessions, you’ll start to discern which ones help you understand passages fully and answer questions correctly and efficiently.

Try out the same study strategies at home until they become second nature.

#2: Use the Same Approach Until It Becomes Second Nature

Once you decide on a strategy or strategies, use that same method each time you practice with GMAT reading comprehension sample questions. Preparation is key: Every time you see a reading comprehension passage on the exam, you’ll know exactly what to do, which will increase your chances of getting it right.

#3: Practice Analyzing Non-GMAT Articles

Use sophisticated newspapers and other reading materials like The Economist, The New Yorker , the New York Times , the Washington Post , the Wall Street Journal , Science , and the Atlantic to practice analyzing the kind of passages you’ll see on the GMAT.

GMAT reading comprehension passages focus on business-related topics, the humanities, or the natural and social sciences, so choose articles accordingly. When you read, take notes on the main argument or main idea of a given article, the evidence an author uses to make that argument, and the author’s tone. This practice will help you to get accustomed to the kinds of passages you’ll encounter on the test.

Reading newspapers and magazine articles can help you prepare for the verbal section of the GMAT.

What’s Next?

For more in-depth tips on acing the reading comprehension questions, check out our article on GMAT reading comprehension strategies .

For specific guides to other question types on the verbal section, go to our articles on GMAT idioms and GMAT qrammar .

Looking for an overview of practice materials for the GMAT verbal section as a whole? Our guide to GMAT verbal practice  is a helpful resource.

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reading comprehension essay questions

Author: Laura Dorwart

Laura Dorwart is a Ph.D. student at UC San Diego. She has taught and tutored hundreds of students in standardized testing, literature, and writing. View all posts by Laura Dorwart

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Reading & language arts

2nd grade reading & vocabulary, 3rd grade reading & vocabulary, 4th grade reading & vocabulary, 5th grade reading & vocabulary, 6th grade reading & vocabulary, 7th grade reading & vocabulary, 8th grade reading & vocabulary, 9th grade reading & vocabulary, 6th grade reading and vocabulary (improved and expanded).

Differentiated Teaching

Differentiated Teaching

June 20, 2022 ·

125+ Reading Comprehension Question Stems for Any Text

Reading & Literacy

Good reading comprehension instruction starts with strong lesson plans. One of the most important parts of any reading lesson is the questioning that takes place. Whether you're planning a novel study, reading a picture book, or doing passage practice , well-crafted reading comprehension question stems can help teachers plan high-quality lessons that promote deep understanding and engagement from their students.

Reading Comprehension Question Stems 1 reading comprehension question stems

In this blog post, I'll share easy ways to incorporate reading comprehension question stems into your instruction and provide you with a list of options to make lesson planning go a little more smoothly. Let's get started!

What you'll find on this page:

What are question stems?

Question stems are the heart of reading comprehension instruction. They provide teachers with a framework for asking questions that probe student understanding and promote critical thinking.

When used correctly, question stems can ensure all standards are covered and help reading instruction move from surface level to deeper levels of understanding.

This makes them an important tool for fast and effective lesson planning.

Reading Comprehension Question Stems 400 × 600 px 2 1 reading comprehension question stems

Why use stems to support reading comprehension?

There are many reasons why reading comprehension question stems should be an integral part of reading instruction. First, question stems help teachers to focus their questioning. It can be easy to get off track when asking questions during a reading lesson and question stems provide a helpful guide.

Second, question stems encourage students to think more deeply about what they are reading. Good questions should require students to do more than just remember facts or retell the story. Instead, they should be questions that make students think critically about the text and wrestle with complex ideas. There doesn't have to be a correct answer!

Why Should I Use Reading Comprehension Question Stems reading comprehension question stems

Third, question stems can help reading instruction to be more equitable. By using question stems, teachers can ensure that all students are being asked the same types of questions regardless of the level of their text. This affords them the opportunity to share their thinking and gives exposure to the rich academic language often seen in the question types used on standardized assessments. By utilizing these frameworks throughout the year, you'll ease the burden of test prep!

When everyone is on the same page, reading instruction can be more effective and engaging for all.

How to use reading comprehension question stems

Now that we know a little bit more about question stems, let's talk about how to incorporate them into reading instruction. Here are a few easy ways to get started:

Reading Comprehension Question Stems 400 × 600 px 3 1 reading comprehension question stems

– Use question stems as a planning tool. Before reading a text with your students, take some time to brainstorm which question stems would be most appropriate. This will help you to focus your instruction and ensure that all students are being challenged.

– Use question stems as a guide for questioning. During reading, use the question stems as a guide for your questions. This will help you to stay on track and ensure that all students are engaged.

– Use question stems as a way to assess understanding. After reading, use the question stems to assess student understanding. This will give you a good idea of which areas need more attention and which areas your students have mastered.

120+ Comprehension Question Stems to Use with Your Readers

Now that we've talked about how to use reading comprehension question stems, it's time to give you a list of options to use with your students. I've organized the stems by type so that you can easily find the ones that will work best for your instruction. Remember, these are just a starting point- feel free to adapt them as needed to meet the needs of your students.

Reading Comprehension Question Stems

Pre-reading Question Stems

Pre-reading is an important part of engaging students in the reading process. The goal of pre-reading questions is to activate prior knowledge.

In a whole group lesson, these can also help build shared knowledge in preparation for reading a text. These questions should be used before reading to help students engage with the text.

  • What do you already know about [this topic]?
  • What do you wonder about [this topic]?
  • After seeing [the cover/illustrations/title/etc.], what do you think will happen in the story?
  • What are your predictions for what will happen in the story?
  • Describe the images or illustrations used on the cover. What clues might they give about the text?
  • What does the title tell us about the text?
  • Who is the author and what other books has he/she written?
  • What can we determine about the setting? Is this time/place familiar? If so, what do we already know about it?
  • What genre does this text appear to be? How can you tell?
  • Is this book fiction or non-fiction? How can you tell?

Story Elements

These questions focus on who, what, when, where, why, and how. They are perfect for helping students to identify story elements and understand the plot of a text. As a result, these questions tend to focus on “right there” comprehension. In other words, for most of these questions, students can find the answer by looking back at a specific location in the text. Therefore, these are considered to be a more basic level of comprehension.

While some of these questions ask students to recall details from the entire passage, others focus on taking text details and reframing them into their own words. The most complex and difficult questions that fall in this category, in my opinion, are the main idea questions. This is because these require students to synthesize separate parts of their reading to create a single statement.

  • Who is the main character/protagonist of the story?
  • When/Where does the story take place?
  • What happened [before/after/when] _________?
  • What caused the main character to [do/say] __________?
  • How do you know where the story takes place?
  • Does this story take place in the past, present or future? How do you know?
  • Describe [the main character/setting] using details from the text.
  • What words does the author use to describe ________?
  • What problem was the main character facing? How did s/he resolve it?
  • What important event(s) happened at [the beginning/middle/end] of the story?
  • How does [character] act when [event] happens? Explain what s/he says or does.
  • What was the [turning point/climax/etc.]?
  • What is the main idea of [the passage/paragraph/etc.]?
  • Paraphrase the main events.
  • According to the text, what caused [character/event] to ______?
  • What event in the story caused ______?

Making predictions is a great way for students to engage with a text. It allows them to think about what might happen next and why based on their understanding of the plot. They also help keep students focused on the big events and how they are interconnected.

  • What do you think will happen next? Why do you think that?
  • Based on what has happened so far, what do you think the ending will be?
  • Who do you think is the [mystery person/animal/etc.]? What do you think is the purpose of [character/object/event]?
  • Is [character] going to be a friend or foe? How can you tell?
  • Do you think this story will have a happy ending? Why or why not?
  • Based on the setting, what can you predict about the relationship between the main characters?
  • Knowing the genre, what do you predict will happen in this story?

Analysis questions take things further by requiring students to think critically about the text. These questions are perfect for helping students to make inferences and think beyond “right there” comprehension. To answer these questions, students must pull from their own experiences and what they've read in the text.

These questions can be asked more straightforwardly, or you can get creative. However, creatively formatted questions are often more engaging for learners while still requiring them to analyze the text.

Character Analysis

  • Based on your reading, what character traits would you use to describe [character]?
  • Based on what you know about [character], is this someone who you'd want to be friends with? Why or why not?
  • Describe the relationship between [character] and [character].
  • How does [character] change throughout the story? What causes these changes to occur?
  • How do [character]'s actions at the beginning of the story help you better understand him/her?
  • Which statement from the text summarizes the relationship between [character] and [character]?
  • How are you similar to [character]? How are you different?
  • On page #, the narrator says, “—-“. Based on this statement, how would you describe him/her?
  • What does this character contribute to the story?
  • How are [character] and [character] similar? In what ways are they different?
  • How is this character's role different from other characters in the story?
  • Do you think that this character is [reliable]? Why or why not?
  • Knowing this character, what would you do if you were in his/her shoes?
  • What does the author mean when s/he says, “—-“? Do you agree with this statement?
  • Do you agree with [character]'s decision? Why or why not?
  • Did [character] do what you anticipated s/he would to solve [problem]? Explain.
  • How does [character] react when faced with [situation]? Compare her/his reaction with your own when you've been in similar situations.

Text Analysis

  • How does the ending reflect the themes of the story?
  • What do you think is the main message or theme of the story?
  • Do you think that this text was [informative/engaging/etc.]?
  • What point of view is the story told from? How might this impact the reader's understanding of the plot?
  • What context clue(s) best help you figure out the meaning of the word ____?
  • How does the author build tension in the passage/story? How did this impact you as a reader?
  • Explain what the author meant by _____ using your own/different words.
  • What does the author's choice of words contribute to the tone of the story?
  • How does the author's use of [imagery/metaphors/etc.] help readers understand the text?
  • Which detail from the text best supports [claim/statement/idea]?
  • Write a summary of the [story/passage/etc.] that incorporates the main ideas concisely.
  • The author includes the phrase “—-” to show –
  • In paragraph #, what is the meaning of the word [vocabulary word]?
  • How does this author show ______?
  • What is the meaning of [paragraph/lines]?
  • In paragraph #, what is the meaning of [figurative expression]?
  • Why is the [first paragraph/last stanza/etc] important to this piece?
  • What from the pictures/illustrations helps you understand ____?
  • Can you see any similarities between this story and other's we've read?
  • What stories have we read with a similar theme to this story?

Inferring/Drawing Conclusions

In order to answer these questions, students need to be able to read between the lines and make inferences based on their understanding of the text. Inference questions can be used while reading or after reading when the author leaves the reader with unanswered questions. However, since inferring is a higher-order skill, many students will need scaffolded support in order to answer these types of questions.

Infer about character, setting, plot

  • Based on the story, what can you conclude about [character/setting/problem/etc.]?
  • How did [character] feel after [event]?
  • Why was [event/character/setting] important to the story?
  • What can you infer about the relationship between [character] and [character]?
  • If [event] had not happened, how might the story have changed?
  • Why does the author compare [character/setting/event/etc.] to ______?
  • What motive does [character] have to ______?
  • What words in the [paragraph/passage/selection] help you understand how [character] feels about [event]?
  • Based on your understanding of the plot, could this story have taken place in [different setting]?
  • What does the narrator mean when s/he says, “—-“? How do you know?
  • Consider the problem that arose in this passage. Using what you know about them, explain how each of the main characters might solve it.
  • What inferences can you make about ____?
  • What can you conclude about the relationship between [character] and [character]? How did you reach this conclusion?
  • Analyze the advantages and disadvantages of how [character] chose to solve [problem]. Do you think s/he made the right choice?

Infer about author's craft/tone/message

  • What lesson do you think the author was trying to convey through this [story/passage]?
  • How might the tone of the passage change if the author was ______?
  • Why did the author choose to include ______ in this story? How does it impact the reader's understanding/experience?
  • What theme(s) are incorporated into this [story/passage]?
  • What can you tell about the narrator as you reached the end of the story?
  • Based on your understanding of the text, the author draws the comparison between ______ and _____ in order to help the reader do what?
  • How does the ending of the [story/passage] reflect its themes?
  • What is the author trying to convey? Explain using text evidence.

Author's Craft

Asking students to examine the author's craft is helpful both to their experience as readers and writers. When students spend time exploring and analyzing the author's craft they can better understand the nuances of the text and can begin to see how these same skills can be applied to their own writing to improve their craft.

Here are a few of my favorite question stems that encourage students to focus on the author's craft during reading instruction.

Literary Elements & Text Features

  • What was the author's intent for including ________ in this passage?
  • A cliffhanger is used to engage the reader and keep them wanting more. As you finish this chapter, what questions are you left with?
  • Why do you think the author chose to end the chapter this way? How does it impact you as a reader?
  • Foreshadowing is when an author gives subtle clues that allow a reader to predict what will happen. What clues has the author given in this selection that helped you prepare for future events?
  • Examine the author's use of figurative language in this [chapter/passage/selection]. How did it help you better understand/visualize what was happening?
  • Why did the author choose to title this chapter _____? After reading, do you feel this was a good fit?
  • How does the author's use of descriptive language impact your reading experience? How might this story be different if the author chose to forego these details?
  • These chapters/paragraphs are all about ____. Why do you think the author chose to include this information? How does it help the reader connect with the story?
  • What senses does the author appeal to through the imagery of this [poem/passage/stanza/etc.]?

Characters/Setting/Etc.

  • How do the illustrations included in the text help contribute to your understanding?
  • What does [vocabulary word] mean? What clues helped you come to that conclusion?
  • How does the author organize the selection? Why do you think s/he chose to organize it in this fashion?
  • After reading the passage, explain the mood the author is trying to convey.
  • The author writes from the perspective of _____. What effect does this have on how the story is told?
  • Examine how the author conveys [character]'s feelings about _____. How might you apply a similar style to your own writing?
  • Why do you think the author chose to tell this story from a [first person/second person/third person] point of view? How might this story be different if told from a different point of view?

Non-fiction Text Reading Comprehension Question Stems

Nonfiction texts are often more difficult for readers. While they include factual information, it is common to have a more technical vocabulary and less familiar concepts. These question stems can help you support your students while reading nonfiction passages.

Text Features & Elements of Non-Fiction

  • What can you tell me about the structure of this text?
  • How does the author's choice to include ____ help contribute to your understanding of the text?
  • Based on the text/illustration, what is the meaning of [vocabulary word]?
  • According to the passage, what happens after [insert event or step of process]?
  • Explain the reason for the section titled ____ in this passage. How does it benefit the reader?
  • Why do you think the author chose to include the [photograph/graph/other text feature] on page #? What information can you gather from this?
  • Diagram the parts of a _____ according to the article.

Other Non-Fiction Reading Comprehension Question Stems

  • How does the author support his/her claims throughout the reading?
  • What is the author's purpose for writing this [text/chapter]?
  • How does the author develop his/her argument in this selection?
  • What evidence does the author use to support ______?
  • Who is providing this information? How might this differ if it were being told from a [first-hand/second-hand] account instead?
  • Is this a primary or secondary source? How do you know?
  • Is there anything you disagree with the author on?
  • What is the main idea of this [section/chapter/passage]?
  • What details in the text support the main idea?
  • Based on what you've read, what are the pros and cons of [topic]?
  • Why did the author feel it was important to share ______ with readers?
  • What are some [facts you learned/opinions the author shared] in the text?
  • Why did the author write this passage?
  • What evidence from the article supports the author's viewpoint that [insert viewpoint]?
  • According to the article, what are the steps involved in _____?
  • Which sentence from the article supports the idea that ___________?
  • Based on what you've read, what is the most important thing a reader should know about [topic]?

A meaningful way to guide the discussion

You can use reading comprehension question stems to help plan high-quality reading lessons for your students. By using these question stems, your students will understand fiction and nonfiction texts better. In addition, they'll be able to extract important information from nonfiction texts, which is a critical skill as they move toward high school.

Reading comprehension question stems can be used to help students analyze texts more deeply and develop an understanding of the author's purpose and argument. As students become more proficient readers, they can use these question stems to generate their own questions about the text. This will help them become better, more thoughtful readers.

If you're looking for a way to improve reading comprehension in your classroom, using reading comprehension question stems is a great place to start. By modeling, scaffolding using graphic organizers during class discussions, and through the use of these stems, you can help your students become better, more engaged readers.

Ready to get started? Grab my graphic organizers bundle to use with these question stems in your classroom.

Read Respond reading comprehension question stems

Reading Comprehension Worksheets

Inferences worksheets.

  • Context Clues Worksheets
  • Theme Worksheets

Main Idea Worksheets

  • Reading Games

Summary Worksheets

  • Online Tests
  • Figurative Language Worksheets

Short Stories with Questions

  • Nonfiction Passages
  • Genre Worksheets

BECOME A MEMBER!

Here are a bunch of free reading comprehension worksheets. These will help students master reading skills. You can print, edit, or complete these worksheets online . Try the nonfiction or short story reading worksheets to cover general reading skills. Or focus on specific reading skills like making predictions .

Nonfiction Passages with Questions

  • Story Structure Worksheets
  • Characterization Worksheets
  • Setting Worksheets

Making Predictions Worksheets

This is a preview image of TV. Click on it to enlarge it or view the source file.

All Nonfiction Passages

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All Short Stories

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All Inferences Worksheets

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All Main Idea Worksheets

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All Theme Worksheets

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All Story Structure Worksheets

This is a preview image of Characterization Worksheet 1. Click on it to enlarge it or view the source file.

All Characterization Worksheets

This is a preview image of Setting Worksheet 1. Click on it to enlarge it or view the source file.

All Setting Worksheets

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All Summary Worksheets

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All Prediction Worksheets

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324 Comments

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This test makes no sense.

Blanca Portillo

Wow. I could not not agree more with all these positive comments people have posted on this wonderful website. I do thank whoever created such a great resource for teaching. I have been exploring and using the worksheets. Not only do I but also my students have found them pretty useful and meaningful. Best wishes. and Keep up the wonderful work.

Thank you so much for your material. This has been a lifesaver! I wish to improve my students’ reading skills and you have been helping so much!

Priscilla Araba Hagan

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Priscilla Hagan

This has been a great find. I love the stories and so do my students. I have particularly found the nondiction passages wonderful – the ones which appear in their reading books are often bland and not engaging – and so do my students. They’re learning so much and it’s stirring their curiosity to do their digging about the topics they most enjoy.

Since comprehension questions in our part of the world are not mcqs – they are usuallyquestions which require short answers – I usually dowload the passages and prepare my own questions, with maybe one or two mcqs from your question bank thrown in. Thus, my students cannot find answers and it makes them do the hard work of comprehending the passages.

I also underline some of the words and phrases and ask them to find words or phrases which mean the same and can replace them in the passage – that’s another important component of questions asked on reading comprehension passages in my part of the world, Ghana. Maybe those complaining about cheaters can use some of these strategies. They can also tweak the questions on this site to do away with cheating.

Mr. Morton, you’re amazing. Love, love this site. My students and I are the better for it.

Ayana Sanchez

Hello from Panama, this website has proven so helpful to help my students study for the TOEFL

Keshia Cabriole

Good Morning may we use the Redwoods and Arm Races Story for our study? I would like to say that the story and questionnaire will be a big help if you allow us to use your story to our study.

Of course. Best wishes!

Sahar Zaher

Greetings from Egypt….I’ve been using this site for the past 3 years, and it never failed to impress me and my students. It’s very resourceful and I use it on daily basis. Wherever the owner of this site is, thank you from the bottom of my heart.

You are so welcome! Thank you for using my site.

Honestly, I am writing this short message from the far lower corner of Africa,all the way from Namibia. Coming across this website has just proven to me that truly good people still exist in this world,as opposed to my traditional name which means “Good people are extinct.” I am so grateful to the person who shared all this helpful and precious information. May God continue to fill your heart and life with gifts overflowing upto an eternal fold. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!

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Your website has been very helpful. I really appreciate all the material and worksheets you have available for free. Thank you!

gabriel simon

love your materials; like to be a member

Abeku Adams

Whoever you are behind this resource, know that you are a good person and I am grateful for making such superb materials available to us. I am in Ghana, West Africa. You’ve made life a lot easier. Do you have a button to which those who wish to make a small number of donations can go?

This website is supported by advertisements. No need for donations! But I am very happy that you like the site and took the time to comment. Best wishes!

Malik Radwan

These comprehensions were really helpful in studying It would be great if you would add poetry comprehensions too (the ones that ask for literary elements) Really thank you.

Do you mean poems with questions like these ?

Jornalyn N. Agapito

Thank you so much for this reading material. It was great help to my students to develop love in reading.

You’re such an amazing person! Thank you for sharing these materials. They helped me a lot as an ELA middle school teacher. May God bless you!

Excellent passages

I am looking for material for a 10-12 reading comprehension class. Your materials are great, but a lower interest level from HS students. Any suggestions for upper levels?

Thanks so much for sharing these wonderful worksheets!

JHANNET VELÁSQUEZ

EXCELLENT WEBSITE!

Excellent and the really valuable resource.

Delores J. Mayes

My students has searched and found the answer keys to these readings. I wish there was a way the teacher’s could sign in for the content and keep the cheaters from having the honest kids miss out on these readings. What has our world gone to. This is so sad that my students would copy answers word for word and expect to get a 100% as well as their parents. We are growing a nation of untruth and cheaters.

Yeah, that is pretty frustrating.

It’s tough to keep the content free and open while preventing students from finding the answers.

One thing that might help is downloading the .RTF file and editing the titles of the assignments. A persistent student will still be able to find the answers, but that may make it a little harder.

Also, remember, cheaters are only cheating themselves! And the system and everyone else too, but mainly themselves! Best wishes!

Hi Ma’am Dolores. That happened to me years ago during the MDL (modular distance learning) in our country, Philippines. You know what I did, I shorten my URLs and add number 1 at the end of it. This way, they can no longer trace my resources.

Alexandra Bardon

Thank you Mr. Morton for sharing! Your material is just what we need to keep students busy during lockdown. I really appreciate it. K. Bardon

Harbani Kaur

Thank you so much for sharing so much worksheets

This is a great website! thank you very much for sharing.

PASKARAN RAMAYA

Thank you very much Mr.Morton for providing such good reading texts . You have a big heart to share the resources without expecting nothing in return. I’m a teacher and it has been a great help to me in preparing reading materials for my students. Thank you!

Nusrat Jahan

I am pleased to get such a wonderful worksheet through this website.

love your website, thanks for caring and sharing your talents in many ways. the resources are quite helpful, and the games are invigorating

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I am a middle school remedial reading teacher and finding supplemental material for our students is always a challenge. Your content will be so helpful!

Thank you for your generosity. I have liked and am following your FB page, and I’ve already referred several of my teacher friends to check this out.

People like you make the world a better place.

I wish you all the success in the world, and hopefully some advertisers so you can start getting some money for all of this content.

Thank you for the kind words and the blessings. I wish you, as well, the greatest possible success.

Wonderful resources for teachers and learners.Express my heartfelt Thanks.

Great website could be a bit more specific on some stories and grade 4-8 is quite a gap

Übermom Fakoya

This is such a treasure trove, especially during this period of remote learning. To also offer these gems freely is great magnanimity on your part. I am grateful; thank you ever so much!

Do more worksheets for Grades 1-5.

Lawrence Fried

Hi. I use your material alot. Question: Regarding these Reading Comp worksheets, how to you level them at “grades 2-6”? Quite a gap!

I have neglected the earlier grades for a long. I am beginning anew at this website: worksheetland.com

Please join me.

it so excellent helpful for English language learning

Mary Levtzow

Thank you for sharing and caring about each child’s potential.

Excellent website!!!

Thank you for allowing some things to still be available without having to sign your life away first.

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Study Aids & Media

The reading comprehension section of your standardized test will include various types of passages and questions.

The reading passages will be from a variety of academic disciplines.

Free Reading Practice Tests

Click on each of the links below to see the free reading exam practice questions.

Compare and contrast

Drawing conclusions, author’s purpose.

Facts and opinions

Types of Questions

Your reading comprehension test will include the following types of questions.

Main idea  questions will ask you to find the main idea of the entire passage or of a single paragraph.

Supporting details

For supporting detail questions, you will need to scan the passage quickly to look for specific information.

These kinds of questions may ask you to identify which things are being compared and contrasted.

Alternatively, you may have to discover differences or similarities between two texts.

In order to draw a conclusion based on a reading comprehension passage, you need to make a small logical deduction based on the information provided.

You should avoid wild guesses or conclusions that are not supported by the text.

Questions on the author’s purpose require you to analyze the passage and determine whether the author is trying to educate, persuade, or entertain the reader.

Author’s purpose questions may also ask you to classify the text more specifically as emphatic, critical, or objective.

Fact vs. opinion

These types of reading comprehension questions will provide statements from the passage and ask you which one of them contains an opinion.

Types of Reading Comprehension Passages

You will see passages from various academic areas on your reading comprehension test.

Remember to answer the questions based solely on the information contained in the reading comprehension passage.

You will see reading comprehension texts from:

Social sciences

These reading comprehension passages include subjects like psychology, sociology, political science, and cultural studies.

Natural sciences

This subject area is sometimes referred to as hard sciences. It includes the academic disciplines of biology, chemistry, physics, geology or earth science, health, and medicine.

You may also see reading comprehension passages that contain extracts from:

Prose fiction

Questions on excerpts of prose fiction will ask for main ideas, supporting details, author’s tone or purpose, and the intentions and thoughts of characters.

In addition, prose fiction questions frequently ask about narrative voice.

In other words, these questions will ask you: “Who is the narrator of this passage?”

Practical passages

These types of passages will give instructions about a process or describe how to do something step by step.

You will need to read the passage carefully since the steps may not be given in chronological order.

You may also like to try our free problems on writing and math .

English Texts for Beginners

reading comprehension essay questions

English texts for beginners to practice reading and comprehension online and for free. Practicing your comprehension of written English will both improve your vocabulary and understanding of grammar and word order. The texts below are designed to help you develop while giving you an instant evaluation of your progress.

reading comprehension essay questions

Prepared by experienced English teachers, the texts, articles and conversations are brief and appropriate to your level of proficiency. Take the multiple-choice quiz following each text, and you'll get the results immediately. You will feel both challenged and accomplished! You can even download (as PDF) and print the texts and exercises. It's enjoyable, fun and free. Good luck!

  • Wedding Wishes PREMIUM ? »
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Reading Comprehension Workbooks and Leveled Readers

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Free reading comprehension worksheets.

Use these printable worksheets to improve reading comprehension. Over 100  free children's stories  followed by comprehension exercises, as well as  worksheets focused on specific comprehension topics  (main idea, sequencing, etc).

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Reading Comprehension Test With Answers for High Schools

Here is another reading comprehension test with answers for high schools in our series of multiple-choice questions comprehension tests.

Are you a high school English tutor looking for a made-for-you reading comprehension test with answers for your high school English class? Then you can have this comprehension passage and objective test questions and answers for your students.

This series of reading comprehension tests will be a helpful test prep tool for both regular high school students and private learners alike.

So if you are looking for ways to practice your reading comprehension answer skills for an upcoming English Language test, I strongly recommend that you go through as many English comprehension mock tests as possible with Cegast Academy.

Here is your next English reading comprehension test passage. Right under the passage, you will find the questions to answer in the multiple-choice objective test to follow.

Read through the questions first.

Make sure to read through the questions even before reading the passage. I have explained why I believe this approach to be the best in this post.

You will see your results in real-time. And as always, it is strictly private and confidential.

But you are free to share this reading comprehension test with answers with anyone you believe will also need it.

Top 5 Aspects of a Bad Essay

How to Successfully Teach Yourself a Subject

Reading Comprehension Test With Answers Passage 1

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions on it.

The class ranged itself loosely in a semi-circle around the demonstration platform. Their official age was around sixteen though, in fact, it ranged from Kojo’s fifteen years to one or two boys of twenty-one.

Mr Abu, the laboratory attendant, came in from the adjoining store and briskly cleaned the blackboard. He was a retired sergeant, feared by the boys. If he caught any of them in petty thieving he offered them the choice of a hard smack on the backside or of being reported to the science master. Most boys chose the former as they knew the matter would end there with no protracted interview, moral recrimination and entry into the conduct book.

The science master stepped in and stood on his small platform. A tall, thin, dignified Negro, with greying hair and silver-rimmed spectacles. Vernier was his nickname as he insisted on exact measurement and exact speech, ‘as fine as a vernier scale’ , he would say, which measured things in thousandths of a millimetre. Vernier set the experiments for the day and demonstrated them. It was a simple heat experiment to show that a dark surface gave out more heat by radiation than a bright surface.

During the class, Vernier was called away to the telephone and Abu was not about, having retired to the laboratory for a smoke. As soon as a posted sentinel announced that he was out more heat by radiation than a bright surface.

During the class, Vernier was called away to the telephone and Abu was not about, having retired to the laboratory for a smoke. As soon as a posted sentinel announced that he was out of sight, pandemonium broke out. Some of the boys raided the store. The wealthier ones swiped rubber tubing to make catapults and repair bicycles and helped themselves to chemicals for developing films. The poorer boys were more determined and took only things of strict commercial interest which could be sold easily in the market. They emptied stuff into bottles in their pockets: soda for making soap, salt for cooking………

Kojo’s cowardly conscience goaded him to protest, which he mildly did. ‘Oh shut up!’ a few boys said. Sorie, a huge boy who commanded respect and some leadership in the class growled, ‘Look here, Kojo, you are getting out of hand. What do you think our parents pay taxes and school fees for? For us to enjoy – or to buy a new car every year for Simpson?’   

The other boys laughed. Simpson was the European headmaster feared by the small boys, adored by the boys in the middle school and liked by none of the seniors and African masters. He had a passion for new motor–cars, buying one yearly, ‘come to think of it,’ Sorie continued, ‘Kojo, you must take something yourself, then we’ll know we are safe. ’ ‘Yes, you must’, the other boys insisted. Kojo gave in and, unwillingly, took a little nitrate for some gunpowder experiments which he was carrying out at home.

PLEASE NOTE. I t is best to read through these questions before you begin to read the passage itself. This may not be a popular approach to reading comprehension tests and exercises. However, I believe it is a more effective way of dealing with any comprehension passage in an examination.

Make sure to do the multiple-choice comprehension test based on this passage. You will have the reading comprehension test with answers just after these questions.

a. For each of the following words, find another word or phrase that means the same and  can replace it in the passage:

ii. protracted,

iii. dignified,

iv. sentinel,

v. pandemonium.

b. Why did the boys fear Abu, the laboratory attendant?

c. How was the class left unattended?

d. How did the science master come by the nickname ‘Vernier’?

e. With details from the passage, show how the economic background of the boys was reflected in the manner they looted the science store.

f. What did Sorie do to confirm the writer’s statement that he commanded respect and had leadership skills?

g. Kojo’s cowardly conscience goaded him to protest.

What literary device is used in this expression?

h. …….. we are safe.

i. What is the grammatical name for this expression?

ii. What is its function in the sentence? 

Audio Lessons on Grammatical Names and Functions – FREE

WAEC Sample Comprehension Questions and Answers Part 3

15 Best English Grammar Learning Websites

Multiple Choice Reading Comprehension Questions with Answers

It’s time for you to try the reading comprehension questions. Your results and the correct answers will show as soon as you have finished answering the questions.

Please, bear with us. All tests and quizzes will return soon. Thank you.

Final Thoughts

Congratulations. You have just taken your preparation for the reading comprehension test to a new and higher level. In case you can’t get some answers right, do not despair. It is a process and all this is part of it.

Do not forget to look at my article on how to answer comprehension questions in an examination.

Did you find this information helpful? Then share it on your favourite social media platform for the benefit of others you care about. Thank you!

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reading comprehension essay questions

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reading comprehension essay questions

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  1. Reading Comprehension Worksheet

    reading comprehension essay questions

  2. Reading Comprehension Questions

    reading comprehension essay questions

  3. Reading Comprehension Tests B2 Pdf

    reading comprehension essay questions

  4. Writing Answers to Essay Questions

    reading comprehension essay questions

  5. WH Question Worksheets

    reading comprehension essay questions

  6. Free Printable Reading Passages With Questions

    reading comprehension essay questions

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  1. Reading Comprehension

  2. ielts reading tips and tricks

  3. READING COMPREHENSION

  4. Readings in Cultures : Exam 02 امتـحـان مـع التـصـحـيـح(2020) -- أسـئـلـة مـبـاشـرة

  5. Theme 3 Unit 5 Coursebook #grade 12B

  6. READING COMPREHENSION GRADE 3

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  1. Reading Comprehension Questions

    Exercises like the ones found on these free reading comprehension worksheets—complete with multiple-choice and essay questions—are perfect for growing reading comprehension skills. Before long, your students will be prepared for any standardized testing (like the SAT , PSAT , and GRE ) or real-world reading scenario.

  2. PDF Comprehension Questions

    answer simple questions about a story that has been read. It is important that parents support the processes of inferring, synthesizing, analyzing, and critiquing at home. The suggested questioning strategies on the next page can guide you in facilitating meaningful discussions that develop good comprehension skills at home.

  3. Getting started with Reading Comprehension

    Reading Comprehension overview. On Test Day, you will see one scored section of Reading Comprehension, which means that Reading Comprehension makes up roughly one quarter of your total points. Length: 26-28 passage-based questions (divided into four reading passages). Subject matter: Four passages are drawn from four areas: Law, Social Science ...

  4. Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers

    Reading Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers #1. Globalization is the process by which economies, cultures, and populations around the world become more integrated and interdependent. It is driven by advances in technology, transportation and communication, which have facilitated the flow of people, goods and ideas across national ...

  5. Free Reading Comprehension Worksheets

    Technical Reading Comprehension Worksheets. In these reading comprehension worksheets, students are asked questions about the meaning, significance, intention, structure, inference, and vocabulary used in each passage. Each passage reads like an encyclopedic or technical journal article. Answers for worksheets in this section can be found at ...

  6. English Reading Comprehension Exercises

    Start your journey to fluency today and elevate your reading comprehension skills to new heights! Unlock the power of English with our interactive reading comprehension exercises. Dive into a range of topics and levels, perfect for learners eager to master the language. ... Open-Ended Questions/Essay Questions: Assess the ability to analyse ...

  7. How to Improve Reading Comprehension: 8 Expert Tips

    Tip 3: Re-read (or Skim) Previous Sections of the Text. For the most part, reading is a personal activity that happens entirely in your head. So don't feel you have to read just like anyone else if "typical" methods don't work for you. Sometimes it can make the most sense to read (or re-read) a text out of order.

  8. PDF Reading Comprehension Franklin D. Roosevelt became president of the United

    20 questions of two primary types in Reading Comprehension. • The first type of question consists of a reading passage followed by a question based on the text. Both short and long passages are provided. The reading passages can also be classified according to the kind of information processing required,

  9. Essay / Editorial Reading Comprehension Passages and Questions

    Essay/Editorial. Essays and editorials are opinion pieces. Essays are a form of nonfiction literature where the author examines a particular topic and usually gives an opinion or some perspective about it. These are usually short, although one essay is often a part of a larger collection of essays. Editorials are journalistic pieces.

  10. Reading Comprehension Worksheets

    9th - 10th Grade Reading Comprehension Worksheets. The reading comprehension passages below include 9th and 10th grade appropriate reading passages and related questions. Please use any of the printable worksheets (you may duplicate them) in your high school…. Free, printable reading comprehension passages to use in the classroom or at home.

  11. The 9 Best GMAT Reading Comprehension Practice Resources

    Cost: $25. Pros: Aristotle Prep offers more GMAT reading comprehension sample questions than many other unofficial resources (which tend to be heavier on the strategy, lighter on the practice), so you'll get more bang for your buck. Passages are similar in content, length, and tone to the real GMAT. The passages are divided into easy, medium ...

  12. PDF Developing reading comprehension questions

    The answers to the comprehension questions, identification of the type of comprehension each represents, and the form of the question are given in Appendix B. It may be useful to look over the questions in Appendix A before reading the article. After you have finished answering the questions, identifying the types of comprehension and the forms ...

  13. ELA practice (beta)

    Syntax: sentences and clauses. Syntax: conventions of standard English. Usage and style. ELA practice exercises (beta) for 2nd to 9th grade, covering reading comprehension and vocabulary. Aligned to Common Core State Standards for Reading: Literature; Reading: Informational Text, and Vocabulary Acquisition and Use.

  14. 125+ Reading Comprehension Question Stems for Any Text

    Here are a few easy ways to get started: 125+ Reading Comprehension Question Stems for Any Text 7. - Use question stems as a planning tool. Before reading a text with your students, take some time to brainstorm which question stems would be most appropriate.

  15. Download and practice with free sample questions

    See sample questions to help you practice for ACCUPLACER ESL tests. PDF. 212.16 KB. Download sample essay prompts and view scored essays. WritePlacer and WritePlacer ESL guides show you the types of prompts you might see on the WritePlacer tests, as well as examples of responses to those prompts, the scores they received, and why they received ...

  16. Reading Comprehension Worksheets

    Here are a bunch of free reading comprehension worksheets. These will help students master reading skills. You can print, edit, or complete these worksheets online. Try the nonfiction or short story reading worksheets to cover general reading skills. Or focus on specific reading skills like making predictions .

  17. 5th Grade Reading Comprehension Passages & Questions

    Reading Passages, Questions & Answers - Fifth Grade. Below you'll find 5th grade reading comprehension passages along with questions and answers and vocabulary activities. These printable 5th grade practice activities are helpful for struggling readers or students who just need extra comprehension practice!

  18. Reading Comprehension Passages and Questions

    These types of reading comprehension questions will provide statements from the passage and ask you which one of them contains an opinion. Types of Reading Comprehension Passages. You will see passages from various academic areas on your reading comprehension test. Remember to answer the questions based solely on the information contained in ...

  19. English Reading: English Texts for Beginners

    English texts for beginners to practice reading and comprehension online and for free. Practicing your comprehension of written English will both improve your vocabulary and understanding of grammar and word order. The texts below are designed to help you develop while giving you an instant evaluation of your progress. Prepared by experienced ...

  20. Reading Comprehension Essays: Examples, Topics, & Outlines

    Reading Comprehension There Is an. PAGES 10 WORDS 2948. One counterargument to the practice of teaching vocabulary is that children learn the meanings of many words by experiencing those words in the actual world and in text without explicit instruction. Unfortunately, such incidental learning is filled with possible problems.

  21. Free Reading Comprehension Worksheets

    Free reading comprehension worksheets. Use these printable worksheets to improve reading comprehension. Over 100 free children's stories followed by comprehension exercises, as well as worksheets focused on specific comprehension topics (main idea, sequencing, etc). Sample Reading Comprehension Worksheet.

  22. Comprehension Essay

    reading comprehension. An outline establishes an orderly relationship of facts or ideas. It is an essential tool and a time-saver. (De La Cruz and Aquino, 2008). It is the guide when reading or guide for writing a report. Furthermore, outlining serves as a visualization of the ideas and information in an orderly manner. 889 Words.

  23. Reading Comprehension Test With Answers for High Schools

    Reading Comprehension Test With Answers Passage 1. Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions on it. The class ranged itself loosely in a semi-circle around the demonstration platform. Their official age was around sixteen though, in fact, it ranged from Kojo's fifteen years to one or two boys of twenty-one.