Details/Examples to Explain, Infer (Text) Practice Test

Read the passage. Coral reefs are underwater structures made by tiny animals called coral polyps. The polyps build hard skeletons, and thousands grow together for many years. Reefs are home to about 25% of marine species, including fish, sea turtles, octopuses, and sharks. Coral polyps have algae living inside them that make food using sunlight and share it. Because sunlight is needed, reefs grow best in warm, shallow, clear water. Rising ocean temperatures can cause coral bleaching, when coral turns white after losing algae. Based on the passage, what can you infer about how quickly reefs recover after damage?

Read the passage. Archaeologists are scientists who study human history by excavating artifacts. When they find a site, they dig carefully through layers of soil and record where each item is found. They use tools like trowels, brushes, and screens so fragile objects do not break. Every artifact is photographed, measured, and cataloged before it is removed. Archaeologists can also use scientific dating methods to estimate an artifact’s age. Based on the passage, what can you infer about why archaeologists work slowly?