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English Final Exam Review

Grade 8 BTS Term 1

Ms. Reem 2023-2024

ALL ACTIVITY ANSWERS ARE AT THE END

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Click on the box to go to the slide.

Exam Summary

Keywords Review

Writing Review

Writing Practice

Grammar Review

Grammar Practice

Ordering Sentences

MAZE Assessment

Reading Comprehension

All Activity Answers

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Exam Summary

Grade 8 BTS Term 1

Ms. Reem 2023-2024

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Exam Overview

Date November 20-25 2023

WE DON’T KNOW THE NUMBER OF GRAMMAR/READING QUESTIONS!

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Writing Exam (Paper)

Edit your writing!

Part 3

Read a text and answer questions in full sentences.

Part 2

Write your paragraph.

Part 1

Plan your paragraph.

Date November 20-25 2023

10 minutes

40 minutes

30 minutes

10 minutes

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Reading Exam (Online)

Date November 20-25 2023

Part 4

Put the words in the correct order to make a sentence.

Part 5

MAZE Assessment - Choose the word that completes the sentence.

Parts 6, 7 & 8

Read the question and find the answer in the text.

WE DON’T KNOW THE NUMBER OF GRAMMAR/READING QUESTIONS!

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Writing Review

Grade 8 BTS Term 1

Ms. Reem 2023-2024

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What is a paragraph?

  • A group of sentences that talk about the same topic.
  • It usually has more than 5 sentences.

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What are the parts of a paragraph?

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  • It has a topic sentence. A topic sentence is the first sentence in a paragraph, it answers the main question.
  • It has supporting details. Supporting details are more information, they answer the smaller questions.
  • It has a conclusion sentence, this sentence ends the paragraph.

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What should we always REMEMBER when writing paragraphs?

•      Read the question carefully.

•      Answer all parts of the question.

•      Write full sentences.

•      Start your sentences with capitals and end them with full stops.

•      Add many details to make your sentences longer, always ask yourself why did I write this?

•      Use linking words like because to explain your point.

•      DON’T use and or because to start the sentence.

•      DON’T write very long sentences without full stops.

•      DON’T forget to read your writing again to check for mistakes.

•      DON’T use google translate or search online for answers because that is CHEATING!

 

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Let’s look at this example!

Topic Sentence

Supporting Detail 1

Supporting Detail 2

Supporting Detail 3

Supporting Detail 4

Conclusion Sentence

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Parts of a Paragraph

Topic Sentence

Supporting Detail 1

Conclusion Sentence

Education is important for personal growth and success. By attending school, we learn valuable knowledge and skills that prepare us for the future. Subjects like math, science, and languages help us think critically and solve problems. Education also teaches us about different cultures and ideas, building our understanding and tolerance. The more we learn, the better prepared we are to navigate life's challenges and contribute positively to our communities. Education opens doors to opportunities and empowers us for a brighter tomorrow.

Importance of Education

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Plan your paragraph!

Planning is graded! (Total = 5 points)

Activity 1: Write a few words in each space to plan your paragraph.

What city or country have you visited before?

    • What did you like about the city or country?
    • What activities did you do there?
    • What did you dislike about the city or country?
    • Would you visit the place again?

Malta

Island, buildings

Popeye Village

Not a lot of activities.

Yes

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Write your paragraph!

Planning = 5 points |Writing = 15 points (Total = 20 points)

Activity 1: Write a paragraph of 5-7 sentences about the topic below. i IIIIIIIIII

What city or country have you visited before?

    • What did you like about the city or country?
    • What activities did you do there?
    • What did you dislike about the city or country?
    • Would you visit the place again?

Malta

Island, buildings

Popeye Village

Not a lot of activities.

Yes

Visiting Malta

Years ago, I visited Malta with my family. We went to the capital city called Valetta. The country was very beautiful. It was a small island with beautiful buildings.

When we were there we visited Popeye Village. It was very cute and we had a lot of fun. There was not a lot of things to do there in the winter. If I get the chance, I would visit it again.

complicated / travel / Makkah /experience / beautiful

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Writing Practice

Grade 8 BTS Term 1

Ms. Reem 2023-2024

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Part 1 : Planning

Part 1: Planning

Read the question below and complete the plan. Write short notes not full sentences. (5 points, 10 minutes)

How can you improve the city of Abu Dhabi?

  • How will you improve transportation?
  • How will you improve parks and streets?
  • What can you add to Abu Dhabi to make it better?
  • Why should we improve our city?

Topic Sentence

Supporting Sentences

Conclusion Sentence

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Part 2 : Writing a Paragraph

Use the question below to write an organized paragraph. It must be 70 words at least. Make sure to include the topic sentence, supporting sentences and a conclusion sentence. (25 points, 40 minutes)

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How can you improve the city of Abu Dhabi?

  • How will you improve transportation?
  • How will you improve parks and streets?
  • What can you add to Abu Dhabi to make it better?
  • Why should we improve our city?

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Part 3 : Read and Answer (1)

  1. How did the colorful patterns on the boat connect to their culture?
  2. What was the cultural importance of catching a hammour fish?
  3. In what ways did fishing with his family make Ahmed feel connected to his culture and ancestors?
  4. Why is it important to keep fishing traditions in the UAE alive for future generations?

Read the text below and answer questions in full sentences. Use evidence from the text.

A Day of Fishing in the UAE

Long ago in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), there was a 10-year-old boy named Ahmed. He lived near the Arabian Gulf with his family. In the past, fishing was a cherished tradition in the UAE, bringing families together.

One bright morning, Ahmed's father and grandfather decided it was time to teach him the old-fashioned way of fishing. They took him to their colorful boat, which was covered in patterns telling stories of their culture.

As they sailed into the calm, clear waters, Ahmed listened to his grandfather's stories about their ancestors who had relied on fishing for their livelihood. Ahmed learned that fishing wasn't just about catching fish; it was about connecting with their heritage.

The three generations of fishermen cast their lines into the turquoise sea. Ahmed's heart raced as he felt a tug on his line. He had caught a hammour, a special fish that was highly prized in the UAE. It was a moment of great pride for Ahmed, and he understood the importance of preserving these traditions.

Throughout the day, they caught many fish, and Ahmed was amazed by the variety of colorful fish in the sea. As the sun began to set, they returned to the shore, their boat filled with their catch.

This experience had not only taught Ahmed how to fish but had also connected him to his family's history and culture. He realized the importance of preserving these traditions for the future.

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Part 3 : Read and Answer (2)

  1. Why do you think Hamed chose a fantasy book about mythical creatures?

  • How might Ahmed's interest in a non-fiction book about space contribute to his understanding of the world?

Read the text below and answer questions in full sentences. Use evidence from the text.

Hamed and Ahmed, two curious sixth-graders, decided to spend their Saturday afternoon at the local library. As they entered, the shelves filled with books of all genres caught their attention. Excitement bubbled within them as they explored the vast collection.

Hamed, with a penchant for adventure, gravitated towards the fantasy section. He picked up a book about mythical creatures and got lost in a world of magic. On the other hand, Ahmed, the science enthusiast, found himself in the non-fiction aisle. A book about space captivated his interest, and he immersed himself in the wonders of the cosmos.

The two friends eventually reconvened at the study area, their minds buzzing with newfound knowledge. They marveled at the wealth of information the library offered and realized that learning could be both enjoyable and enlightening.

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Capitals & Punctuation (.?!)

  1. ahmed and saif went to yas mall
  2. are you going to school on monday
  3. i need to buy toast milk and cheese
  4. the curtains are on fire
  5. we visited italy last winter

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Activity: rewrite each sentence using capitals and punctuation.

-

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Sentence Starters & Adjectives

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Grammar Review

Grade 8 BTS Term 1

Ms. Reem 2023-2024

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Grammar Practice

Grade 8 BTS Term 1

Ms. Reem 2023-2024

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Grammar Topics

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Quantifiers

words that explain the number of something

Is there enough food left in the cafeteria?

Meaning

The speaker is asking about the quantity of food and whether there is as much food as everyone needs.

Grammatical structure

enough + noun: enough food

too many / too much + noun: too much trash

Other quantifiers: many, few, little

Usage

We use ‘too much/many’ we are saying there is more than we want. We use ’many’ for countable nouns and ‘much’ for uncountable nouns. We can use ‘no’ in before a countable or uncountable noun to show the lack of something.

Other examples

There are too many students in our class.

I don’t have enough lunch.

There is no space left in the classroom.

Activity: Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

  1. "There are ________ apples in the basket."

a) too many

b) too much

c) many

  1. "I have ________ time to finish my homework before dinner."

a) many

b) too many

c) little

  1. "She has ________ friends in her class."

a) too much

b) too many

c) many

  1. "There is ________ sugar in my tea."

a) too many

b) too much

c) many

  1. "There are ________ cookies left in the jar"

a) too many

b) too much

c) few

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Present Perfect

verbs that talk about something that happened at some point in the past.

I have studied English.

He has missed the bus.

Meaning

The speaker has studied English at some point in the past. The man did not get on the bus in time.

Grammatical structure

Present perfect

‘have / has’ + past participle

Usage

We can use present perfect to describe a personal experience that occurred at an unspecified point in the past. We can also use it to refer to personal experiences from an unspecified point in the past up until the time of speaking e.g. I have tried kunafa.

Other examples

I have eaten lunch.

She has run away.

Have you seen this movie?

Activity: Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

1. Sarah _____ her homework already.

a) do

b) did

c) has done

d) does

2. We _____ a new puppy.

a) get

b) got

c) have gotten

d) gets

3. Tom _____ to the new movie that just came out.

a) go

b) goes

c) went

d) has gone

4. My family _____ a fun vacation last summer.

a) have

b) had

c) has had

d) having

5. They _____ many books from the library.

a) read

b) reads

c) have read

d) reading

Alef Lesson #27

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Past Simple

verbs that talk about an action that happened in the past.

She played chess, then her mother arrived.

Meaning

She was playing chess in the past.

Grammatical structure

Past simple: subject + verb-ed + object

Usage

We use simple past to describe an action that happened and was completed at one point in the past. In the first example above, with past continuous, the girl hasn’t finished her game at the point that her mother arrives. In the second example, with past simple, the girl has finished her game before her mother arrives.

Other examples

Ahmad read a book after he got home from school.

Did you finish your homework before you watched TV?

Activity: Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

1. Sarah _____ to the park yesterday.

a) go

b) goes

c) went

d) gone

2. We _____ our favorite movie last night.

a) watch

b) watching

c) watched

d) watches

3. Tom _____ a great cake for his birthday.

a) bake

b) bakes

c) baked

d) baking

4. My family _____ a picnic by the river last weekend.

a) have

b) having

c) has

d) had

5. They _____ their homework before dinner.

a) finish

b) finished

c) finishing

d) finishes

Alef Lesson #22

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Past Simple

Grade 8 BTS

Unit 3: Lessons 3-4�Activity 4 (CB)

Pages 30-31,36

Alef Lesson #22

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Past Continuous

using was/were + ing verbs total about something that started in the past

It was getting dark as I left the bookshop.

Meaning

The day turned to night as the person walked out of the bookshop.

Grammatical structure

Past time: past continuous

subject + was / were + verb-ing

Usage

In the example, the past continuous tense is used to describe an action that took place over a period of time in the past and was interrupted by another past action.

Other examples

I was sleeping when the phone rang.

I was doing my homework when my father came home. 

We were watching the TV when you arrived.

I, he, she, it = was

You, they, we = were

Activity: Use the given verb to complete the sentence using the past continuous.

  1. He was playing the guitar when his mom came home. (play)
  2. Martin _____________ his classmate’s homework when the teacher saw him. (copy)
  3. My sister ____________ when she came home from school (cry)
  4. A bad boy ______________ a younger student after school. (bully)
  5. My mom ____________ the violin at nine last night. (practice)

Alef Lesson #33

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Adverbs of Degree

words that tell you how strong something is

It is very likely that it will rain today.

Meaning

It will probably rain today.

Grammatical structure

Adverbs: degree

(really, very, quite)

adverb of degree + adverb

Usage

The adverb of degree tells us how strong something is. They are placed before the adjective or verb that they modify. In this example, the adverb (very) is being used to modify another adverb (likely).

Other examples

They ran really quickly.

She talks very slowly.

My family go to the cinema quite often.

Activity: choose the correct adverb of degree to complete the sentences.

  1. He was (really / extremely) tired, he couldn’t even move.
  2. I was (slightly / really) excited to watch the movie, I couldn’t wait!
  3. The water was (slightly / very) over the edge, it was about to spill.

really

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Adverbs of Degree

words that tell you how strong something is

The car is travelling too fast!

Meaning

The car is moving at a speed that is greater than necessary.

Grammatical structure

Adverbs: degree

‘too' + adverbs of manner

adverb of manner + ‘enough’

Usage

We use ‘too’ to say something is more than we need. When we use ‘too’ before an adverb, it intensifies the adverb and says that it is more than necessary. It has a negative meaning. We use ‘enough’ when there is as much as necessary – just the right amount. When we use ‘enough’ after an adverb with a positive sentence, it has a positive meaning – I ran fast enough to win the race. When it is used in a negative sentence, it has a negative meaning - I didn’t run fast enough to win the race.

Other examples

I could write quickly enough to finish the exam.

The class were too busy talking to hear the bell.

They played football well enough to get to the final.

Activity: choose the correct adverb of degree to complete the sentences.

1. She sings ________ to be heard in the back row.

a) loud enough

b) too loudly

c) quickly enough

d) very fast

2. The water was ________ for swimming, so we jumped in.

a) too cold

b) warm enough

c) so hot

d) pretty fast

3. He walked ________ to catch the bus, but he missed it.

a) too slow

b) fast enough

c) too fast

d) really slowly

4. My ice cream melted ________ on that hot summer day.

a) too quickly

b) quite deliciously

c) enough sweet

d) very loudly

5. The teacher spoke ________ for the students at the back of the classroom to hear.

a) too quietly

b) pretty smart

c) quickly enough

d) enough tired

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Ordering Sentences

  1. been / I / have / the / to / recently. / museum
  2. read / interesting / My / a / book. / friend / very / has
  3. She / loud / was / music / playing / last night.
  4. enough / haven't / to / It / us / snowed / for / go / skiing.
  5. yesterday. / the / store / visited / just / new / I
  6. chocolate. / eaten / have / too / We / much
  7. dark / It / was / outside / raining / and / heavily.
  8. She / been / evening. / library / the / has / the / studying / whole / at
  9. There / many / my / in / not / school. / students / are
  10. last / dinner / her / cooked / night. / very / She / delicious / a / meal / for

Activity: read the words and put them in the correct order.

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I have been to the museum recently.

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MAZE Assessment Practice

Activity: Fill in the blanks with the correct option to complete the passage.

London is a city full of history, culture, and exciting experiences. I (1) __________ (have / had / have had) the privilege of visiting this amazing city several times.

On my first visit, I (2) __________ (see / saw / seen) many iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and the Tower of London. The weather (3) __________ (was / is / has been) quite unpredictable, but it (4) __________ (add / adds / added) to the charm of the city.

During my most recent trip, I (5) __________ (experience / experienced / experiences) the London Eye, which provided a breathtaking view of the entire city. Fortunately, the weather (6) __________ (be / was / has been) clear, and I could see for miles. It (7) __________ (be / is / has been) one of the best moments of my life.

I have (8) __________ (always / very / too) enjoyed exploring the museums in London. The British Museum, in particular, (9) __________ (contain / contains / contained) an incredible collection of artifacts from around the world. I (10) __________ (learn / learned / have learned) so much during my visits.

Use this link to look up words you don’t understand:  https://kids.britannica.com/kids/browse/dictionary

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Keywords Review

Grade 8 BTS Term 1

Ms. Reem 2023-2024

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________

word

Part of speech

definition

sentence

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Reading Comprehension

Grade 8 BTS Term 1

Ms. Reem 2023-2024

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Reading Tips

  • Always read the questions before the text.
  • Look for keywords in the question, the same word will help you find the answer in the text.
  • When reading the text, skip some words that you don’t understand - it’s okay!
  • Make sure you choose the answer you found in the text.
  • Read the text again to check your answers.
  • Don’t submit without checking all your answers.

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Activity: Answer the questions using the text.

  1. Galileo’s ideas were attacked by
    1. other scientists.
    2. Nicolaus Copernicus.
    3. Leaders of the Roman Catholic Church.

  • In what year did Galileo know for sure how our solar system is set up?
    • 1520
    • 1609
    • 1613

  • What was special about the telescope?
    • The invention was perfect.
    • The glass was curved.
    • The invention didn’t have glass.

  • The telescope was a _______ invention.
    • Dutch
    • Deutsch
    • Dansk

  • What did the church do the second time Galileo published his findings?
    • Awarded him
    • Arrested him
    • Killed him

Always make sure to highlight where you found the answer in the text to know that your answer is correct.

Galileo’s Discoveries About the Universe

For thousands of years people thought that the universe was a hollow ball—like the inside of a basketball. Earth was in the middle. The sun, the moon, and the planets went around it in a circle. The stars did not move. They were fixed in place on the inner wall of the “ball.” About 1520, Nicolaus Copernicus found out that this theory was wrong. He watched the sky. He saw the way that the moon and planets moved. They did not seem to go around Earth. He started to think that Earth and other planets went around the sun. But he had no way to prove it.

The Roman Catholic Church controlled all learning in Europe. It did not like Copernicus’s ideas. The Church stated that Earth was the center of the universe. Anyone who said otherwise was a heretic. And the Church could kill a heretic.

Galileo Galilei was a scientist. He wanted to know how things worked. He did experiments with gravity. He knew about Copernicus’s idea. He agreed with him. But he could not prove it. Then in 1609 he met a man. The man showed him a new Dutch invention. It was a crude telescope. Galileo got excited. He could improve upon it! He made one with curved glass lenses. This made things appear 32 times larger.

Galileo used his telescope to watch the night sky. He kept records of the motion of the moon and planets. By 1613, he knew how things really worked. Earth and other planets moved around the sun. He wrote about his findings. The Church attacked him. He waited for things to settle down. Twenty years later he repeated his findings in another book. This time the Church arrested him. It found him guilty of being a heretic. He would burn at the stake! Galileo did not want to die. So he said that he had written lies. The Church put him under house arrest for the rest of his life. He could not go places or talk about his ideas.

But Galileo had changed the world. He showed other scientists that it was important to make careful observations and keep records. He created a useful telescope. And he showed people that they could question the Church.

Use this link to look up words you don’t understand:  https://kids.britannica.com/kids/browse/dictionary

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Activity: Answer the questions using the text.

  1. Which device was invented first?
    1. Zoetrope
    2. Kinetoscope
    3. Thaumatrope
    4. cinema machine

  • What is the best way to describe animation?
    • Still images appear to move.
    • b. It brings objects to life.
    • It is used to make movies more exciting.
    • It can only be accomplished with computers.

  • What does the word persistence mean as it is used in the second paragraph?
    • refusing to give up
    • remaining
    • continuing an effect
    • repeating a question
  • Which statement best describes the first animated cinema movies?
    • He drew images on layers of glass slides and had them move within a lantern, giving the appearance �of movement.
    • The cartoons were all hand drawn and carefully filmed to show natural movement.
    • Today, cartoons are made via computer technology, and the old-fashioned method of hand drawing �every image is uncommon.
    • By spinning the two images, Paris created the illusion of movement.

Always make sure to highlight where you found the answer in the text to know that your answer is correct.

Animated Cartoons

Cartoons have been around longer than you might think. In 1640, Athanasius Kircher was the first man who attempted to put drawings into motion. He drew images on layers of glass slides and had them move within a lantern, giving the appearance of movement.

In the early 1800s, it was determined that movement can also be accomplished by placing fixed images on paper. This was called “the persistence of vision.” To illustrate this, John Paris invented the Thaumatrope. It was a two-sided plate with a different image on each side. Paris took an image of a bird on one side and an empty cage on the other. He used two strings and wound it so that when pulled tight, it spun and the two images “moved,” creating the illusion of the bird in

the cage.

Mathematician William Horner invented the Zoetrope in 1867. It was a roll of paper with drawings on it, placed inside a turning drum with slots. As it turned and one looked through the slots, the images appeared to move. It was actually first called The Wheel of the Devil but was later renamed the Zoetrope.

Later, in the 1800s, Thomas Edison invented the Kinetoscope, the first cinema machine. One looked into a slot where a reel of photos or pictures passed, and the images moved seamlessly.

Based on Edison’s invention, images were eventually placed on film that moved at a high rate of speed. The cartoons were all hand drawn and carefully filmed to show natural movement.

Today, cartoons are made via computer technology, and the old-fashioned method of hand drawing every image is uncommon. Cartoons have expanded from being intended primarily for children to providing entertainment for all ages. After over three hundred years, they still have not lost their appeal.

Use this link to look up words you don’t understand:  https://kids.britannica.com/kids/browse/dictionary

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Activity: Answer the questions using the text.

  1. According to the text, what type of land form is an archipelago?
    1. mountain range
    2. a chain of islands
    3. a series of canyons
    4. a large glacier �
  2. Which natural disaster does the Philippines not experience?
    • typhoons
    • earthquakes
    • floods
    • tornadoes
  3. According to the text, what is one reason the Philippines is a popular tourist destination?
    • There are millions of people in the Philippines.
    • Many countries have influenced the culture of the Philippines.
    • Some of the islands are uninhabited.
    • It is exciting to witness a typhoon. �
  4. What is the best way to define a typhoon?
    • a violent tropical cyclone
    • a snow storm
    • a large wall of water
    • a meteorite

Always make sure to highlight where you found the answer in the text to know that your answer is correct.

The Philippines

The nation of the Philippines is an archipelago. That means the nation is a group of islands. More than 7,000 islands make up the nation, but only about 2,000 are occupied. The capitol of the nation is Manila, on the island of Luzon. Manila has over 1.6 million people in the city—the most people per square mile than any other major city in the world. Almost 100 million people live in the Philippines.

During the 16th century, the Spanish landed and made Manila the capital of the Spanish West Indies. Since then, the Filipino people have fought for independence from various nations including Spain, Japan, and the United States. Today, the Filipinos have their own democracy under President Benigno Aquino III.

The Philippines is on the Pacific Ring of Fire and has many natural disasters. Every year, the nation has an average of between six and nine typhoons that hit land. The last major typhoon was Typhoon Yolanda, which was the strongest typhoon ever recorded on land. Many were killed or injured, and hundreds of thousands more people were displaced after high winds and floodwaters destroyed their homes. An average of twenty earthquakes also occur daily, although most are not felt.

Because of their varied past, the Philippines is a mix of East, West, Spanish, and Asian cultures. The two official languages of the Philippines are Filipino and English. Their colorful culture makes the Philippines a popular tourist destination.

Use this link to look up words you don’t understand:  https://kids.britannica.com/kids/browse/dictionary

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Activity: Answer the questions using the text.

  1. How is education today different from the past?

a) It's all about memorizing facts.

b) It uses computers and smartphones.

c) It only happens in a classroom with books.

  • What important skills do students learn in modern education?

a) Memorizing facts and taking tests.

b) Critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork.

c) Making friends in the classroom.

  • Based on the text, why is education said to be tailored to each student today?

a) Because students can choose whatever they want to study.

b) Because students must follow a strict curriculum.

c) Because teachers help students explore their interests.

  • What do we understand about the role of modern education in creating a better world from the text?

a) Modern education only cares about facts.

b) Modern education doesn't aim to create better individuals.

c) Modern education aims to create better individuals and a better world.

  • Why is it mentioned that education is not just about memorizing facts?

a) Because memorizing facts is more important than critical thinking.

b) Because memorizing facts doesn't help in everyday life.

c) Because critical thinking and problem-solving are crucial for the future.

  • How does education today encourage students to explore their interests?

a) By forcing all students to study the same subjects.

b) By allowing students to choose their favorite subjects.

c) By removing all technology from the classroom.

Always make sure to highlight where you found the answer in the text to know that your answer is correct.

Education Today

Education in the present is an exciting and important part of our lives. Let's explore what it's like to learn and grow in the world today.

In the past, students mostly learned from books and teachers in a classroom. But today, education has become more diverse and interesting. We use computers, tablets, and even smartphones to help us learn. These tools make learning fun and interactive. We can watch educational videos, play educational games, and even connect with teachers and students from around the world online.

One fantastic thing about education now is that it's not just about memorizing facts. We learn how to think critically, solve problems, and work as a team. These skills will help us in our future jobs and everyday life.

Another exciting part of modern education is that it's tailored to each student. Some students might be interested in science, while others love art or music. In today's classrooms, teachers help students follow their passions and explore their interests.

Moreover, we learn about the world's different cultures and the importance of being kind and respectful to everyone. Education today is not just about facts; it's about creating better individuals and a better world.

So, in the present, education is like a big adventure. We have so many tools, opportunities, and ways to learn, and it's up to us to make the most of them. Remember, education is not just about school; it's about learning throughout our lives and becoming the best version of ourselves.

Use this link to look up words you don’t understand:  https://kids.britannica.com/kids/browse/dictionary

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Activity Answers

Grade 8 BTS Term 1

Ms. Reem 2023-2024

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Part 1 : Planning

Part 1: Planning

Read the question below and complete the plan. Write short notes not full sentences. (5 points, 10 minutes)

How can you improve the city of Abu Dhabi?

  • How will you improve transportation?
  • How will you improve parks and streets?
  • What can you add to Abu Dhabi to make it better?
  • Why should we improve our city?

Topic Sentence

Supporting Sentences

Conclusion Sentence

We improve by adding transportation, building and fixing.

Adding trams.

Building more parks.

Making a big public library.

We should improve because it is our duty.

ANSWERS

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Part 2 : Writing a Paragraph

Use the question above and write an organized paragraph. It must be 70 words at least. Make sure to include the topic sentence, supporting sentences and a conclusion sentence. (25 points, 40 minutes)

How can you improve the city of Abu Dhabi?

    • How will you improve transportation?
    • How will you improve parks and streets?
    • What can you add to Abu Dhabi to make it better?
    • Why should we improve our city?

Improving Abu Dhabi

To make Abu Dhabi a better city we can improve transportation, parks, streets and adding more public services. By adding more efficient public transportation options like buses and trams, people can move around easily. We should also make our parks and streets cleaner and greener, planting more trees and creating fun spaces for everyone to enjoy. To make Abu Dhabi even better, we can add a public library in the city centre. It's important to improve our city to make it more pleasant for everyone and attract more visitors.

ANSWERS

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Part 3 : Read and Answer

  1. How did the colorful patterns on the boat connect to their culture?
  2. What was the cultural importance of catching a hammour fish?
  3. In what ways did fishing with his family make Ahmed feel connected to his culture and ancestors?
  4. Why is it important to keep fishing traditions in the UAE alive for future generations?

Read the text below and answer questions in full sentences. Use evidence from the text.

A Day of Fishing in the UAE

Long ago in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), there was a 10-year-old boy named Ahmed. He lived near the Arabian Gulf with his family. In the past, fishing was a cherished tradition in the UAE, bringing families together.

One bright morning, Ahmed's father and grandfather decided it was time to teach him the old-fashioned way of fishing. They took him to their colorful boat, which was covered in patterns telling stories of their culture.

As they sailed into the calm, clear waters, Ahmed listened to his grandfather's stories about their ancestors who had relied on fishing for their livelihood. Ahmed learned that fishing wasn't just about catching fish; it was about connecting with their heritage.

The three generations of fishermen cast their lines into the turquoise sea. Ahmed's heart raced as he felt a tug on his line. He had caught a hammour, a special fish that was highly prized in the UAE. It was a moment of great pride for Ahmed, and he understood the importance of preserving these traditions.

Throughout the day, they caught many fish, and Ahmed was amazed by the variety of colorful fish in the sea. As the sun began to set, they returned to the shore, their boat filled with their catch.

This experience had not only taught Ahmed how to fish but had also connected him to his family's history and culture. He realized the importance of preserving these traditions for the future.

The colorful patterns on the boat connected to their culture by sharing stories and traditions through visuals.

Catching a hammour fish was culturally important because it represented a deep connection to the sea and the cultural identity of the UAE.

Fishing with his family made Ahmed feel connected to his culture and ancestors by passing down traditions and values from one generation to the next.

Keeping fishing traditions alive is important for future generations as it preserves cultural identity, ensures that valuable traditions are not lost, and fosters a sense of pride and connection to their heritage.

ANSWERS

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Part 3 : Read and Answer (2)

ANSWERS

  1. Why do you think Hamed chose a fantasy book about mythical creatures?What was the cultural importance of catching a hammour fish?

  • How might Ahmed's interest in a non-fiction book about space contribute to his understanding of the world?

Read the text below and answer questions in full sentences. Use evidence from the text.

Hamed and Ahmed, two curious sixth-graders, decided to spend their Saturday afternoon at the local library. As they entered, the shelves filled with books of all genres caught their attention. Excitement bubbled within them as they explored the vast collection.

Hamed, with a penchant for adventure, gravitated towards the fantasy section. He picked up a book about mythical creatures and got lost in a world of magic. On the other hand, Ahmed, the science enthusiast, found himself in the non-fiction aisle. A book about space captivated his interest, and he immersed himself in the wonders of the cosmos.

The two friends eventually reconvened at the study area, their minds buzzing with newfound knowledge. They marveled at the wealth of information the library offered and realized that learning could be both enjoyable and enlightening.

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Hamed chose the fantasy book because he loves imagining magical worlds and mythical creatures, and it allows him to escape into a realm of creativity and adventure.

Ahmed's interest in the non-fiction book about space helps him learn more about planets, stars, and the universe, expanding his knowledge of science and the wonders of outer space.

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Capitals & Punctuation (.?!)

  1. ahmed and saif went to yas mall
  2. are you going to school on monday
  3. i need to buy toast milk and cheese
  4. the curtains are on fire
  5. we visited italy last winter

ANSWERS

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Activity: rewrite each sentence using capitals and punctuation.

-

Ahmed and Saif went to Yas Mall.

Are you going to school on Monday?

I need to buy toast, milk and cheese.

The curtains are on fire!

We visited Italy last winter.

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Quantifiers

words that explain the number of something

Is there enough food left in the cafeteria?

Meaning

The speaker is asking about the quantity of food and whether there is as much food as everyone needs.

Grammatical structure

enough + noun: enough food

too many / too much + noun: too much trash

Other quantifiers: many, few, little

Usage

We use ‘too much/many’ we are saying there is more than we want. We use ’many’ for countable nouns and ‘much’ for uncountable nouns. We can use ‘no’ in before a countable or uncountable noun to show the lack of something.

Other examples

There are too many students in our class.

I don’t have enough lunch.

There is no space left in the classroom.

Activity: Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

  1. "There are ________ apples in the basket."

a) too many

b) too much

c) many

  1. "I have ________ time to finish my homework before dinner."

a) many

b) too many

c) little

  1. "She has ________ friends in her class."

a) too much

b) too many

c) many

  1. "There is ________ sugar in my tea."

a) too many

b) too much

c) many

  1. "There are ________ cookies left in the jar"

a) too many

b) too much

c) few

ANSWERS

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Present Perfect

verbs that talk about something that happened at some point in the past.

I have studied English.

He has missed the bus.

Meaning

The speaker has studied English at some point in the past. The man did not get on the bus in time.

Grammatical structure

Present perfect

‘have / has’ + past participle

Usage

We can use present perfect to describe a personal experience that occurred at an unspecified point in the past. We can also use it to refer to personal experiences from an unspecified point in the past up until the time of speaking e.g. I have tried kunafa.

Other examples

I have eaten lunch.

She has run away.

Have you seen this movie?

Activity: Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

1. Sarah _____ her homework already.

a) do

b) did

c) has done

d) does

2. We _____ a new puppy.

a) get

b) got

c) have gotten

d) gets

3. Tom _____ to the new movie that just came out.

a) go

b) goes

c) went

d) has gone

4. My family _____ a fun vacation last summer.

a) have

b) had

c) has had

d) having

5. They _____ many books from the library.

a) read

b) reads

c) have read

d) reading

ANSWERS

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Past Simple

verbs that talk about an action that happened in the past.

She played chess, then her mother arrived.

Meaning

She was playing chess in the past.

Grammatical structure

Past simple: subject + verb-ed + object

Usage

We use simple past to describe an action that happened and was completed at one point in the past. In the first example above, with past continuous, the girl hasn’t finished her game at the point that her mother arrives. In the second example, with past simple, the girl has finished her game before her mother arrives.

Other examples

Ahmad read a book after he got home from school.

Did you finish your homework before you watched TV?

Activity: Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

1. Sarah _____ to the park yesterday.

a) go

b) goes

c) went

d) gone

2. We _____ our favorite movie last night.

a) watch

b) watching

c) watched

d) watches

3. Tom _____ a great cake for his birthday.

a) bake

b) bakes

c) baked

d) baking

4. My family _____ a picnic by the river last weekend.

a) have

b) having

c) has

d) had

5. They _____ their homework before dinner.

a) finish

b) finished

c) finishing

d) finishes

ANSWERS

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Past Simple

Grade 8 BTS

Unit 3: Lessons 3-4�Activity 4 (CB)

Pages 30-31,36

Alef Lesson #22

ANSWERS

recited

played

passed down

used

chanted

often was

found

taught

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Past Continuous

using was/were + ing verbs total about something that started in the past

Activity: Use the given verb to complete the sentence using the past continuous.

  1. He was playing the guitar when his mom came home. (play)
  2. Martin ________ his classmate’s homework when the teacher saw him. (copy)
  3. My sister ________ when she came home from school (cry)
  4. A bad boy ___________ a younger student after school. (bully)
  5. My mom _________ the violin at nine last night. (practice)

It was getting dark as I left the bookshop.

Meaning

The day turned to night as the person walked out of the bookshop.

Grammatical structure

Past time: past continuous

subject + was / were + verb-ing

Usage

In the example, the past continuous tense is used to describe an action that took place over a period of time in the past and was interrupted by another past action.

Other examples

I was sleeping when the phone rang.

I was doing my homework when my father came home. 

We were watching the TV when you arrived.

I, he, she, it = was

You, they, we = were

Alef Lesson #33

was copying

was crying

was bullying

was practicing

ANSWERS

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Adverbs of Degree

words that tell you how strong something is

It is very likely that it will rain today.

Meaning

It will probably rain today.

Grammatical structure

Adverbs: degree

(really, very, quite)

adverb of degree + adverb

Usage

The adverb of degree tells us how strong something is. They are placed before the adjective or verb that they modify. In this example, the adverb (very) is being used to modify another adverb (likely).

Other examples

They ran really quickly.

She talks very slowly.

My family go to the cinema quite often.

Activity: choose the correct adverb of degree to complete the sentences.

  1. He was (really / extremely) tired, he couldn’t even move.
  2. I was (slightly / really) excited to watch the movie, I couldn’t wait!
  3. The water was (slightly / very) over the edge, it was about to spill.

really

ANSWERS

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Adverbs of Degree

words that tell you how strong something is

The car is travelling too fast!

Meaning

The car is moving at a speed that is greater than necessary.

Grammatical structure

Adverbs: degree

‘too' + adverbs of manner

adverb of manner + ‘enough’

Usage

We use ‘too’ to say something is more than we need. When we use ‘too’ before an adverb, it intensifies the adverb and says that it is more than necessary. It has a negative meaning. We use ‘enough’ when there is as much as necessary – just the right amount. When we use ‘enough’ after an adverb with a positive sentence, it has a positive meaning – I ran fast enough to win the race. When it is used in a negative sentence, it has a negative meaning - I didn’t run fast enough to win the race.

Other examples

I could write quickly enough to finish the exam.

The class were too busy talking to hear the bell.

They played football well enough to get to the final.

Activity: choose the correct adverb of degree to complete the sentences.

1. She sings ________ to be heard in the back row.

a) loud enough

b) too loudly

c) quickly enough

d) very fast

2. The water was ________ for swimming, so we jumped in.

a) too cold

b) warm enough

c) so hot

d) pretty fast

3. He walked ________ to catch the bus, but he missed it.

a) too slow

b) fast enough

c) too fast

d) really slowly

4. My ice cream melted ________ on that hot summer day.

a) too quickly

b) quite deliciously

c) enough sweet

d) very loudly

5. The teacher spoke ________ for the students at the back of the classroom to hear.

a) too quietly

b) pretty smart

c) quickly enough

d) enough tired

ANSWERS

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Order Sentences

  1. been / I / have / the / to / recently. / museum
  2. read / interesting / My / a / book. / friend / very / has
  3. She / loud / was / music / playing/ last night.
  4. enough / hasn’t / to / It / us / snowed / for / go / skiing.
  5. yesterday. / the / store / visited / just / new / I /
  6. chocolate. / eaten / have / too / We / much
  7. dark / It / the / was / outside / raining / and / heavily.
  8. She / been / evening. / library / the / has / the / studying / whole / at
  9. There / many / my / in / not / school. / students / are
  10. last / dinner / her / cooked / night. / very / She / delicious / a / meal / for

ANSWERS

Activity: read the words and put them in the correct order.

I have been to the museum recently.

My friend has read a very interesting book.

She was playing loud music last night.

It hasn't snowed enough for us to go skiing.

I visited the new store just yesterday.

We have eaten too much chocolate.

She cooked a very delicious meal for her dinner last night.

It was dark outside and raining heavily.

She has been studying at the library the whole evening.

There are not many students in my school.

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MAZE Assessment Practice

Activity: Fill in the blanks with the correct option (a, b, or c) to complete the passage.

London is a city full of history, culture, and exciting experiences. I (1) __________ (have / had / have had) the privilege of visiting this amazing city several times.

On my first visit, I (2) __________ (see / saw / seen) many iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and the Tower of London. The weather (3) __________ (was / is / has been) quite unpredictable, but it (4) __________ (add / adds / added) to the charm of the city.

During my most recent trip, I (5) __________ (experience / experienced / experiences) the London Eye, which provided a breathtaking view of the entire city. Fortunately, the weather (6) __________ (be / was / has been) clear, and I could see for miles. It (7) __________ (be / is / has been) one of the best moments of my life.

I have (8) __________ (always / very / too) enjoyed exploring the museums in London. The British Museum, in particular, (9) __________ (contain / contains / contained) an incredible collection of artifacts from around the world. I (10) __________ (learn / learned / have learned) so much during my visits.

Use this link to look up words you don’t understand:  https://kids.britannica.com/kids/browse/dictionary

ANSWERS

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Activity: Answer the questions using the text.

  1. Galileo’s ideas were attacked by
    1. other scientists.
    2. Nicolaus Copernicus.
    3. Leaders of the Roman Catholic Church.

  • In what year did Galileo know for sure how our solar system is set up?

    • 1520
    • 1609
    • 1613

  1. The telescope was a _______ invention.
    1. Dutch
    2. Deutsch
    3. Dansk

  • What was special about the telescope?
    • The invention was perfect.
    • The glass was curved.
    • The invention didn’t have glass.

  • What did the church do the second time Galileo published his findings?
    • Awarded him
    • Arrested him
    • Killed him

Always make sure to highlight where you found the answer in the text to know that your answer is correct.

Galileo’s Discoveries About the Universe

For thousands of years people thought that the universe was a hollow ball—like the inside of a basketball. Earth was in the middle. The sun, the moon, and the planets went around it in a circle. The stars did not move. They were fixed in place on the inner wall of the “ball.” About 1520, Nicolaus Copernicus found out that this theory was wrong. He watched the sky. He saw the way that the moon and planets moved. They did not seem to go around Earth. He started to think that Earth and other planets went around the sun. But he had no way to prove it.

The Roman Catholic Church controlled all learning in Europe. It did not like Copernicus’s ideas. The Church stated that Earth was the center of the universe. Anyone who said otherwise was a heretic. And the Church could kill a heretic.

Galileo Galilei was a scientist. He wanted to know how things worked. He did experiments with gravity. He knew about Copernicus’s idea. He agreed with him. But he could not prove it. Then in 1609 he met a man. The man showed him a new Dutch invention. It was a crude telescope. Galileo got excited. He could improve upon it! He made one with curved glass lenses. This made things appear 32 times larger.

Galileo used his telescope to watch the night sky. He kept records of the motion of the moon and planets. By 1613, he knew how things really worked. Earth and other planets moved around the sun. He wrote about his findings. The Church attacked him. He waited for things to settle down. Twenty years later he repeated his findings in another book. This time the Church arrested him. It found him guilty of being a heretic. He would burn at the stake! Galileo did not want to die. So he said that he had written lies. The Church put him under house arrest for the rest of his life. He could not go places or talk about his ideas.

But Galileo had changed the world. He showed other scientists that it was important to make careful observations and keep records. He created a useful telescope. And he showed people that they could question the Church.

ANSWERS

Use this link to look up words you don’t understand:  https://kids.britannica.com/kids/browse/dictionary

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Activity: Answer the questions using the text.

  1. Which device was invented first?
    1. Zoetrope
    2. Kinetoscope
    3. Thaumatrope
    4. cinema machine

  • What is the best way to describe animation?
    • Still images appear to move.
    • b. It brings objects to life.
    • It is used to make movies more exciting.
    • It can only be accomplished with computers.

  • What does the word persistence mean as it is used in the second paragraph?
    • refusing to give up
    • remaining
    • continuing an effect
    • repeating a question
  • Which statement best describes the first animated cinema movies?
    • He drew images on layers of glass slides and had them move within a lantern, giving the appearance �of movement.
    • The cartoons were all hand drawn and carefully filmed to show natural movement.
    • Today, cartoons are made via computer technology, and the old-fashioned method of hand drawing �every image is uncommon.
    • By spinning the two images, Paris created the illusion of movement.

Always make sure to highlight where you found the answer in the text to know that your answer is correct.

Animated Cartoons

Cartoons have been around longer than you might think. In 1640, Athanasius Kircher was the first man who attempted to put drawings into motion. He drew images on layers of glass slides and had them move within a lantern, giving the appearance of movement.

In the early 1800s, it was determined that movement can also be accomplished by placing fixed images on paper. This was called “the persistence of vision.” To illustrate this, John Paris invented the Thaumatrope. It was a two-sided plate with a different image on each side. Paris took an image of a bird on one side and an empty cage on the other. He used two strings and wound it so that when pulled tight, it spun and the two images “moved,” creating the illusion of the bird in the cage.

Mathematician William Horner invented the Zoetrope in 1867. It was a roll of paper with drawings on it, placed inside a turning drum with slots. As it turned and one looked through the slots, the images appeared to move. It was actually first called The Wheel of the Devil but was later renamed the Zoetrope.

Later, in the 1800s, Thomas Edison invented the Kinetoscope, the first cinema machine. One looked into a slot where a reel of photos or pictures passed, and the images moved seamlessly.

Based on Edison’s invention, images were eventually placed on film that moved at a high rate of speed. The cartoons were all hand drawn and carefully filmed to show natural movement.

Today, cartoons are made via computer technology, and the old-fashioned method of hand drawing every image is uncommon. Cartoons have expanded from being intended primarily for children to providing entertainment for all ages. After over three hundred years, they still have not lost their appeal.

Use this link to look up words you don’t understand:  https://kids.britannica.com/kids/browse/dictionary

ANSWERS

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Activity: Answer the questions using the text.

  1. According to the text, what type of land form is an archipelago?
    1. mountain range
    2. a chain of islands
    3. a series of canyons
    4. a large glacier �
  2. Which natural disaster does the Philippines not experience?
    • typhoons
    • earthquakes
    • floods
    • tornadoes
  3. According to the text, what is one reason the Philippines is a popular tourist destination?
    • There are millions of people in the Philippines.
    • Many countries have influenced the culture of the Philippines.
    • Some of the islands are uninhabited.
    • It is exciting to witness a typhoon. �
  4. What is the best way to define a typhoon?
    • a violent tropical cyclone
    • a snow storm
    • a large wall of water
    • a meteorite

Always make sure to highlight where you found the answer in the text to know that your answer is correct.

The Philippines

The nation of the Philippines is an archipelago. That means the nation is a group of islands. More than 7,000 islands make up the nation, but only about 2,000 are occupied. The capitol of the nation is Manila, on the island of Luzon. Manila has over 1.6 million people in the city—the most people per square mile than any other major city in the world. Almost 100 million people live in the Philippines.

During the 16th century, the Spanish landed and made Manila the capital of the Spanish West Indies. Since then, the Filipino people have fought for independence from various nations including Spain, Japan, and the United States. Today, the Filipinos have their own democracy under President Benigno Aquino III.

The Philippines is on the Pacific Ring of Fire and has many natural disasters. Every year, the nation has an average of between six and nine typhoons that hit land. The last major typhoon was Typhoon Yolanda, which was the strongest typhoon ever recorded on land. Many were killed or injured, and hundreds of thousands more people were displaced after high winds and floodwaters destroyed their homes. An average of twenty earthquakes also occur daily, although most are not felt.

Because of their varied past, the Philippines is a mix of East, West, Spanish, and Asian cultures. The two official languages of the Philippines are Filipino and English. Their colorful culture makes the Philippines a popular tourist destination.

Use this link to look up words you don’t understand:  https://kids.britannica.com/kids/browse/dictionary

ANSWERS

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Activity: Answer the questions using the text.

  1. How is education today different from the past?

a) It's all about memorizing facts.

b) It uses computers and smartphones.

c) It only happens in a classroom with books.

  • What important skills do students learn in modern education?

a) Memorizing facts and taking tests.

b) Critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork.

c) Making friends in the classroom.

  • Based on the text, why is education said to be tailored to each student today?

a) Because students can choose whatever they want to study.

b) Because students must follow a strict curriculum.

c) Because teachers help students explore their interests.

  • What do we understand about the role of modern education in creating a better world from the text?

a) Modern education only cares about facts.

b) Modern education doesn't aim to create better individuals.

c) Modern education aims to create better individuals and a better world.

  • Why is it mentioned that education is not just about memorizing facts?

a) Because memorizing facts is more important than critical thinking.

b) Because memorizing facts doesn't help in everyday life.

c) Because critical thinking and problem-solving are crucial for the future.

  • How does education today encourage students to explore their interests?

a) By forcing all students to study the same subjects.

b) By allowing students to choose their favorite subjects.

c) By removing all technology from the classroom.

Always make sure to highlight where you found the answer in the text to know that your answer is correct.

Education Today

Education in the present is an exciting and important part of our lives. Let's explore what it's like to learn and grow in the world today.

In the past, students mostly learned from books and teachers in a classroom. But today, education has become more diverse and interesting. We use computers, tablets, and even smartphones to help us learn. These tools make learning fun and interactive. We can watch educational videos, play educational games, and even connect with teachers and students from around the world online.

One fantastic thing about education now is that it's not just about memorizing facts. We learn how to think critically, solve problems, and work as a team. These skills will help us in our future jobs and everyday life.

Another exciting part of modern education is that it's tailored to each student. Some students might be interested in science, while others love art or music. In today's classrooms, teachers help students follow their passions and explore their interests.

Moreover, we learn about the world's different cultures and the importance of being kind and respectful to everyone. Education today is not just about facts; it's about creating better individuals and a better world.

So, in the present, education is like a big adventure. We have so many tools, opportunities, and ways to learn, and it's up to us to make the most of them. Remember, education is not just about school; it's about learning throughout our lives and becoming the best version of ourselves.

Use this link to look up words you don’t understand:  https://kids.britannica.com/kids/browse/dictionary

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ANSWERS