The Upside to Being Outside

Select the letter of the correct answer.

The article primarily discusses_________.

• a study in the United Kingdom that challenged people to interact with nature by doing activities like feeding birds

• scientific studies that find the stress hormone cortisol decreases when people spend time in natural settings

• scientific studies that reveal how spending time in nature improves well-being and fosters creativity

• a study that found people were better at finding imaginative solutions to puzzles after a four-day backpacking trek

Which word is the closest synonym for the word impact?

• illustration

• influence

• issue

• intent

Which passage from the article best supports the idea that spending time in nature increases creativity?

• One study revealed that people were better at finding imaginative solutions to puzzles after a four-day backpacking trek.

• But let's say the only light you've glimpsed all day is the gleam of your smartphone or the glow of the TV. It might be a good idea to switch off the screen.

• Research shows that spending time in nature makes people feel good, whether they're roughing it in the wilderness or just hanging out at a local park.

• Researchers found that most participants' mood and well-being improved significantly when they spent time in urban parks.

According to the article, why does spending time in nature help with brainpower?

• Because it has a lingering effect on a person's well-being that can last for months

• Because it significantly and immediately improves a person's overall mood

• Because it enables the brain to rest and recover from mental fatigue

• Because it is more entertaining being in the wilderness than playing video games

The article states:

One study was conducted in the city of Birmingham, Alabama found that most participants' mood and well-being improved significantly when they spent time in urban parks, even though the average visit was only around half an hour. Why did the author include this passage?

• To explain how much time people spend in parks in Birmingham, Alabama

• To prove that the longer people stay outdoors, the greater the benefit

• To provide evidence that spending time in nature leads to increased health and happiness

• To emphasize the surprising effects of nature on creativity and problem-solving

According to the article, how were the research studies from Birmingham, Alabama, and the United Kingdom similar?

• Both studies revealed that spending time outside led to more imaginative problem-solving and better creativity.

• Both studies focused on people who participated in the "30 Days Wild" challenge by feeding birds.

• Both studies showed that spending time in nature led to improvements in participants; mood and overall well-being.

• Both studies focused on people who completed puzzles after going on a four-day backpacking trek.

The article states:

Scientists in the United Kingdom studied the impact of the "30 Days Wild" challenge. People interacted with nature for 30 days. They enjoyed earthy pastimes like feeding birds and planting flowers. In this passage, the word interacted means________.

• meddled with

• attempted to observe

• connected with

• attempted to avoid

Which of these is a statement of opinion?

• Evidence indicates that cortisol levels are reduced when people spend time in natural settings.

• The "30 Days Wild" study asked people to engage in outdoor activities like feeding birds.

• Artists should spend time each day chilling out in a park or planting flowers outside.

• The "30 Days Wild" study challenged people to interact with nature for 30 days.

After reading this article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.

"Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you."

• Agree

• Disagree

What evidence presented in the article best supports the author's claim that spending time outdoors is a smart move?