Extracurricular Activities Reading Comprehension

We all know high school is tough. Maintaining a strong GPA while taking rigorous classes is challenging enough, not to mention tests each year and applying to college. But what if you were to add in extracurricular activities? If you’re already busy and stressed out from everything else, are these really necessary? To sum it up in one word: yes.

Question. True or false? The author thinks you should do extracurricular activities.

• True

• False

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Extracurricular activities are extra. They go beyond the classroom and include a variety of activities that may be sponsored by your school or your community. Here are some examples: (1) school-sponsored activities, (2) community activities, (3) work, (4) volunteering. This list is by no means complete. If you can dream it, you can do it. While extracurricular activities can be completed on your own, a college is not interested in your personal yoga practice or meal planning unless you lead a group. Helping or interacting with others is key.

Question: Can you do extracurricular activities on your own?

• Yes

• No

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Extracurricular activities are extra. They go beyond the classroom and include a variety of activities that may be sponsored by your school or your community. Here are some examples: (1) school-sponsored activities, (2) community activities, (3) work, (4) volunteering. This list is by no means complete. If you can dream it, you can do it. While extracurricular activities can be completed on your own, a college is not interested in your personal yoga practice or meal planning unless you lead a group. Helping or interacting with others is key.

Question: Does the author recommend you do extracurricular activities on your own?

• Yes

• No

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Clearly there are lots of options when it comes to extracurricular activities. So how do you find the best ones for you? Sadly, there’s no perfect formula that will spit out your answer. However, if you follow some simple guidelines, you can narrow down your choices. The most important thing is to focus on your interests. Any activity you choose should be something you are passionate about and that you will be invested in for a long time. Once you know what you enjoy, find the best fit for you: (1) Ask your guidance counselor or teachers. (2) Ask your friends and family. (3) Check school and/or community bulletin boards and websites. (4) Research national organizations. (5) Start your own group!

Question: If you want to join a club, what should you do?

• Use the formula.

• Focus on your interests.

• Join your best friend's club.

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Studies have shown that students who participate in extracurricular activities not only surpass their peers academically, but also better learn the life skills necessary for success after high school. Listed below are just some of the many benefits to extracurricular activities. They can help you: (1) Highlight your individuality on college applications. (2) Improve academic performance. (3) Develop time management skills. (4) Build self-esteem. (5) Build new friendships. (6) Develop collaboration skills.

Question: How can extracurricular activities help us?

• You will have a strong university application.

• You will get rich.

• You will practice teamwork.

• You'll improve at time management.

• You will be more confident.

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Is there such a thing as too many extracurricular activities? Yes! If you stretch yourself too thin, it can have negative consequences. Your academics could suffer if you’re not spending enough time each evening doing your homework or studying for tests. Your commitment to each extracurricular may waiver if you’re constantly rushing to get from Club A to Club B. You will feel extra pressure and stress to get everything done. Also, many colleges look for applicants who are invested in a few activities over a long period of time, which suggests dedication and focus.

Question: Is it a good idea to do many extracurricular activities at the same time?

• Yes, of course.

• No, because you might get too stressed.

• No, you should only join one.

• No, because extracurricular activities are all bad.

Bonus Question

Which extracurricular activities are the best for me? Clearly there are lots of options when it comes to extracurricular activities. So how do you find the best ones for you? Sadly, there’s no perfect formula that will spit out your answer. However, if you follow some simple guidelines, you can narrow down your choices. The most important thing is to focus on your interests. Any activity you choose should be something you are passionate about and that you will be invested in for a long time. Once you know what you enjoy, find the best fit for you: (1) Ask your guidance counselor or teachers. (2) Ask your friends and family. (3) Check school and/or community bulletin boards and websites. (4) Research national organizations. (5) Start your own group!

Question: Which of these is the most challenging?

• Ask your guidance counselor or teachers.

• Ask your friends and family.

• Check school and/or community bulletin boards and websites.

• Research national organizations.

• Start your own group!

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Bonus Question

From the above paragraphs, what is the author's focus?

• Extracurricular activities help you get into university.

• Extracurricular activities keep you healthy.

• Extracurricular activities help your grades.

• Extracurricular activities make school fun.

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