Keeping Cool

Read the sentence found in paragraph 5.

These images verified that koalas hug trees to keep cool.

The word verified as it is used in the sentence means:

• proved

• compared

• observed

• suspected

Based on information in paragraph 4, why does the tree trunk appear dark in the thermal image?

• To make the koala easier to see

• To show it absorbs heat from the koala

• To represent its cooler temperature

• To illustrate the water inside the tree trunk

What is the best summary of the article? 

• Koalas are furry mammals that can be found in Australia. Over the years scientists have learned a great deal about these tree-dwelling animals. For example, scientists know that koalas eat eucalyptus leaves and hug trees.

• Scientists wondered why koalas grasp the lower trunks of eucalyptus trees when the temperature rises. By using technology to study koalas, scientists discovered that doing so allowed the koalas to conserve the water in their bodies.

• Scientists used technology to observe koalas that hug trees. The scientists located the animals with radio tags, took photographs of them, and measured their temperatures. 

• It is difficult for koalas to live in hot environments because they cannot sweat. They can lick themselves or pant, but these methods can cause them to become dehydrated.

Which idea is supported by information found throughout the article?

• Koalas can dehydrate while trying to stay cool.

• Studying koalas requires special equipment.

• Searching for water is a dangerous activity for koalas.

• Changes in temperature affect the behavior of koalas.

Based on the way information is presented in “Keeping Cool” the author most likely is

• curious about the technology used by certain scientists

• concerned for the safety of certain animals

• impressed by the unique ways certain animals use their surroundings 

• surprised by extreme conditions certain animals must survive