Learner’s Copy

Graded Passage

Grade 8

The Amazing World of Coral Reefs

[1]

Coral reefs are underwater cities teeming with life, vibrant and diverse

ecosystems that are vital to the health of our oceans. They are formed by tiny creatures

called coral polyps, which build hard, calcium carbonate skeletons that grow together

to create massive structures. These structures provide a home for an incredible array

of marine life, from colorful fish and graceful sea turtles to tiny invertebrates and even

sharks.

[2]

The vibrant colors of coral reefs are a result of a symbiotic relationship between

the coral polyps and microscopic algae called zooxanthellae. These algae live within

the coral's tissues and provide them with food through photosynthesis. In return, the

coral provides the algae with a protected environment and access to sunlight. This
partnership is crucial for the survival of both organisms and contributes to the overall

health of the reef.

[3]

Coral reefs are incredibly important to the health of our oceans. They act as

natural barriers, protecting coastlines from erosion and storm surges. They also

provide a source of food and income for millions of people around the world. Fishing,

tourism, and even medicine rely on the health and diversity of coral reefs.

[4]

Unfortunately, coral reefs are facing many threats, including pollution,

overfishing, climate change, and destructive fishing practices. Rising ocean

temperatures and ocean acidification are particularly damaging to coral reefs, causing

them to bleach and die. Coral bleaching occurs when the symbiotic algae leave the

coral, leading to a loss of color and eventually, the death of the coral.

[5]

Protecting coral reefs is crucial for the health of our oceans and the well-being

of countless species. We can all do our part by reducing our carbon footprint,
supporting sustainable seafood practices, and advocating for policies that protect

these vital ecosystems. The future of coral reefs depends on our collective efforts to

ensure their survival.

No. of Words: 303

Written by Jimmy Telen

Questions

1. What are coral reefs made of?

A. algae

B. anemones

C. calcium

D. polyps

2. What is the main reason coral reefs are important to the health of our oceans?

A. They provide a source of food for humans.

B. They are a popular tourist destination.

C. They protect coastlines from erosion and storms.

D. They are home to a diverse array of marine life.

3. Why are coral reefs described as "underwater cities"?

A. Because they are made of hard structures like buildings.

B. Because they are home to a large population of organisms.

C. Because they are in deep, dark parts of the ocean.

D. Because they are a popular tourist destination.

4. What can be inferred about the relationship between coral polyps and

zooxanthellae?

A. They are competitors for resources.

B. They are predators and prey.

C. They are mutually beneficial partners.

D. They have no significant impact on each other.

5. What is an indirect consequence of coral bleaching?

A. death of coral reefs and other marine life

B. erosion of coast lines and storm surges

C. loss of vibrant colors of the coral reefs

D. warmer ocean temperatures and acidity

6. What is the author's main purpose in writing this passage?

A. To describe the physical characteristics of coral reefs

B. To explain the scientific process of coral formation

C. To highlight the importance of protecting coral reefs

D. To provide a detailed history of coral reefs

7. How did the author organize the ideas in the selection?

A. by describing events leading to coral reefs destruction

B. by explaining problems pertaining to coral reefs

C. by listing relevant information about coral reefs

D. by showing how some events badly affect coral reefs

8. The passage states that coral reefs are "vital to the health of our oceans."

What evidence supports this claim?

I. Coral reefs protect coastlines from erosion and storms.

II. Coral reefs are source of food for human beings.

III. Fish and other marine life live in coral reefs.

IV. Coral reefs have a symbiotic relationship with algae.

A. I and II

B. I and III

C. II, and IV

D. I and IV

9. Which of the following best describes the last paragraph?

A. It is didactic, that is, it intended to teach.

B. It contains the main topic of the selection.

C. It has a very serious and formal tone.

D. It provides support to the ideas presented.

10.Which of the following is true about this article?

A. It appeals to environmentalists.

B. It describes the issue accurately.

C. It discusses a relevant issue.

D. It presents a recent problem.

Learner’s Copy

Graded Passage

Grade 9

Tesla's AI Robot Ready in September

[1]

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, asserts that the "Optimus" humanoid AI robot was

about to be released on September 30, 2022. It was initially scheduled for release on

Tesla Day, August 19, but was delayed until September. The delay was caused by the

possibility that a prototype of the AI robot would be available by that time.

[2]

The humanoid AI robot from Tesla was first announced in August of 2021. It

was designed to assist and do daily human tasks. It can walk at least 5 miles per hour

and lift 150 pounds. According to Tesla, Optimus can "eliminate dangerous, boring,

and repetitive tasks."

[3]

Tesla is a well-known automaker that believes electric vehicles can be better,

faster, and more enjoyable to drive than gasoline-powered vehicles. Tesla, which

makes self-driving cars powered by artificial intelligence, used artificial intelligence for

the first time to create a humanoid robot. Japan and China, two of the world's leading

artificial intelligence competitors, have yet to develop a humanoid that physically

resembles humans and can perform human functions. Optimus will be the first to

perform tasks humans do not prefer or want to do. It can also adapt to its owner's

personality. To personalize Optimus, the owner can somehow transfer his or her traits

to it.

[4]

The launch of this humanoid would be the first of its type, and a great deal of

anticipation surrounds the event. Due to Tesla's vow to use artificial intelligence to

improve technology for the greater benefit, many people have high hopes for the future

success of this robot.

Number of Words: 262

Written by Coleen Gay O. Mora

Maxim Staff. (2022, June). Elon Musk is Launching a Humanoid Robot called ‘TESLA OPTIMUS. Elon Musk
is Launching a

Humanoid Robot called ‘TESLA OPTIMUS. https://www.maxim.com/news/elon-musk-is-launching-a-

humanoid-robot-calledtesla-optimus/

Nicholas, K. (2022, June). Elon Musk Says Tesla May Have ‘Optimus’ Robot Prototype Within Months.
Elon Musk Says Tesla

May Have ‘Optimus’ Robot Prototype Within Months.

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-06-03/mus

Questions

1. Which of the following can Tesla's AI robot do for humans?

A. cook

B. drive

C. run

D. think

2. What can owners do to make the AI robot more personalized?

A. Owners can change its appearance.

B. Owners can customize its appearance.

C. Owners can give it a name.

D. Owners can pass on characteristics.

3. What would be the possible impact of Tesla's AI robot on people's lives?

A. It will make people's lives more advanced.

B. It will make people's lives more beautiful.

C. It will make people's lives more comfortable.

D. It will make people's lives more complicated.

4. What is implied by the statement, "Japan and China, two of the world's leading

artificial intelligence competitors, have yet to develop a humanoid that physically

resembles humans and can perform human functions"?

A. America has overtaken Japan and China in artificial intelligence

competition.

B. America, Japan, and China were the three leading competitors in robot

making.

C. Japan and China will also develop a humanoid robot-like Optimus.

D. Japan ang China will envy America for being able to develop a humanoid

robot.

5. Which of the following is NOT discussed in the selection?

A. Artificial intelligence is becoming useful to people.

B. Modern technology can benefit everyone who can afford.

C. Technological advancement will always be beneficial.

D. Technology will always have good and bad effects.

6. What is the meaning of the word “anticipation” in this sentence?

The launch of this humanoid would be the first of its type, and a great deal of

anticipation surrounds the event.

A. eagerness

B. expectation

C. prediction

D. suspension

7. What disadvantage may Optimus cause?

A. People may become lazy.

B. People may harm nature.

C. People may not be healthy.

D. People may not think anymore.

8. Which of the following sentences is an opinion expressed in the selection?

A. Tesla’s Optimus promises an incomparable AI advancement.

B. Tesla's Optimus will be able to adapt to the personality of its owner.

C. Tesla's Optimus will be capable of performing human functions.

D. Tesla’s Optimus will be released on September 30, 2022.

9. What is the author’s purpose in writing the text?

A. To compare America with Japan and China

B. To entertain people with a robot story

C. To inform about the latest AI invention

D. To persuade the people to buy robots

10. Which of the following is NOT mentioned in the article?

A. disadvantages of the AI robot

B. distribution details of the Ai robot

C. estimate price of the AI robot

D. manufacturers of the AI robot