"The Right Tent Makes a Happy Camper"

"The Right Tent Makes a Happy Camper"

Paragraph 1

1     If shopping for a tent seems like a simple task, you haven’t walked into a camping store recently! There are dozens of models to choose from, and they come with a variety of features. There are obvious benefits to having so many choices, but all of the tent styles can make choosing the right tent a daunting process. Here are some handy tips to help you and your family choose the best tent for your needs.

Paragraph 2

The size of your tent is probably the easiest choice to make. Consider such questions as the number of people who will sleep in the tent and the need for any extra storage space inside. Many tents specify the number of people that can fit in them. For example, a manufacturer may claim that a model is a six-person tent. However, getting six people in there may depend not only on the size of the tent but on the size of the campers. It may be that two adults and four children would be quite comfortable in that tent, but six grown adults would feel pretty cramped.

Paragraph 3

You should also consider how you will use the tent so that you buy one with the appropriate weight and bulk. For example, if you are backpacking, you will have to carry your tent from campsite to campsite. Obviously, you’ll want a tent that is very lightweight and that will easily fit in a stuff bag. On the other hand, if car camping is your style, you won’t care about the weight and bulk of the tent.

Multiple Choice

The use of such phrases as “handy tips” and “not your style” help to establish a tone that is __________________.

• formal

• informal

• persuasive

• informative

Paragraph 4

Another consideration is the time of year you plan to use your tent. If you camp only in the summer, spring, or early fall, buy a three-season tent, which tends to be lightweight and well-ventilated. If you like camping in the winter, buy a four-season tent, which is typically stronger and less ventilated. Four-season tents hold up well, even in high wind and heavy snow.

Multiple Choice

In paragraph 4, the author compares three-season and four-season tents in order to point out ___________________.

• the benefits and drawbacks of each.

• that they are more similar than they are different.

• that it is more economical to buy a four-season tent.

• that those who like fresh air should always buy three-season tents.

Paragraph 5

5     If you want to be able to set up your tent fairly quickly and with minimal effort, choose a pop-up tent. It does not even need poles, and you can pitch the tent in seconds. If you feel comfortable setting up a more complicated tent, be sure to set it up at home first to make sure you know what to do once you’re camping.

Multiple Choice

In paragraphs 2–5, how does the author organize the tips she said she would provide?

• in sequential order

• in categories of things to consider

• in order of importance, from most important to least important

• in order of importance, from least important to most important

Paragraph 6

One of the most exciting developments in tent camping is the introduction of solar-powered tents. Solar tents use photovoltaic technology to turn sunlight into energy. Tiny photovoltaic fibers are woven into the tent fabric. While you’re out fishing, hiking, or swimming, your tent is at work collecting sunlight and converting it into energy that you can use to power LED lights inside the tent. You can also use this energy to charge your cell phone, laptop, and other electronic devices. With a solar tent, you won’t have the hassle of searching for an electrical outlet in the campground—you’ll have an outlet inside your tent.

Multiple Choice

Given the context of photovoltaic in paragraph 6, you can tell that it has to do with which of the following?

• photographic equipment

• new kinds of textiles and fabrics

• generating electricity from light

• light and sound technology

Paragraph 7

Solar technology is still relatively new, but the list of features a solar tent can provide is already growing. For example, one tent model is equipped with a touch-screen control center. Connecting your cell phone to the control center activates a GPS. If you are lost or in need of emergency assistance, you can call in your location and then light up your tent so that you are easier to find. This tent has another feature that cold-weather campers will especially appreciate. When the temperature drops below a certain degree, the tent’s groundsheet will automatically heat up to warm the tent’s interior.

Paragraph 8

Considering so many options may take some effort, but choosing the right tent will help make your camping experience a great one. So, what are you waiting for? Go get that tent—and happy trails!

Multiple Choice

What was the author’s purpose in writing this passage?

• to show off her knowledge of camping

• to share her excitement about solar tents

• to help tent shoppers make wise choices

• to expose tent manufacturers’ selling tricks

Multiple Choice

Which sentence from the passage provides the BEST summary of the passage?

• “If shopping for a tent seems like a simple task, you haven’t walked into a camping store recently!”

• “If you feel comfortable setting up a more complicated tent, be sure to set it up at home first to make sure you know what to do once you’re camping.”

• “Solar technology is still relatively new, but the list of features a solar tent can provide is already growing.”

• “Considering so many options may take some effort, but choosing the right tent will help make your camping experience a great one.”

Multiple Choice

Read this sentence from the passage.

"On the other hand, if car camping is your style, you won’t care about the weight and bulk of the tent."

What is wrong with this logic?

• The weight and bulk of the tent certainly are important.

• It is wrong to assume who will and will not care about weight and bulk.

• If car camping is or isn’t your style, weight and bulk never matter.

• It is wrong to assume style and camping go hand in hand.