Virtually Possible Comprehension

1. When do both stories take place?

• in the present
• in the past
• in the future

2. Which detail from “Virtually Possible” demonstrates that it is science fiction?

• Travai's parents are scientists.
• Travai's problem is solved with future technology.
• Travai's parents gave him a special birthday present.
• Travai wished his parents were the kind of scientists that solved real problems.

3. Based on the story, what is the role of THEM in the world?

• THEM is the government of the Earth.
• THEM is in charge of water conservation.
• THEM is responsible for controlling birthdays.
• THEM is the company that manufactures water.

4. Determine the meaning of the word dire in the story.

• equal
• livable
• terrible
• wonderful

1. According to the text “Virtually Possible,” what caused there to be water restrictions?

• THEM was trying to conserve the Earth's natural resources.
• THEM began to make water in labs but they could not make enough.
• THEM was not able to harvest the hydrogen and oxygen out of the air to make the water.
• THEM had built underwater nuclear power plants and chemical factories that eventually leaked.

2. Why do you think Travai asks to go swimming for his birthday?

• He hasn’t gone swimming in a really long time.
• He is angry with THEM for ruining his favorite hobby.
• He has never gotten to try his parents' virtual reality before.
• He wants to show his parents what problems they should be working on fixing.

3. What details from the story tell you that Travai might feel frustrated with his parents?

• His mom promised he would like his gift.
• He wishes they could fix REAL problems.
• He says that the world is pretty messed up.
• He thought he was drowning when he first got in the pool.

4. How does Travai’s mom solve his problem?

• She takes him to the swimming pool for his birthday.
• She reminds him how to swim so he won't drown.
• She lets him dive off the diving board.
• She creates a virtual pool for Travai.

1. How are the main characters of each story different?

• Travai is a boy and Betta is a girl.
• Travai is human and Betta is a robot.
• Travai likes to bake and Betta likes to swim.
• Travai lives with his family and Betta lives in her science lab.

2. Although both stories are science fiction, how are the settings of each story different?

• “Virtually Possible” takes place on Earth and “Birthday on Mars” takes place on Mars.
• “Virtually Possible” takes place in the morning and “Birthday on Mars” takes place at night.
• “Virtually Possible” takes place on Mars and “Birthday on Mars” takes place on anther planet.
• “Virtually Possible” takes place during a regular day and “Birthday on Mars” takes place during a birthday.