The Truth About Sharks

What is your name?

1. [Part A] Based on the section “Sharks in Trouble,” readers can infer that ____.

• collisions with boats are the main threat sharks face
• only large shark species are at risk
• sharks play an important role in Earth’s oceans
• large shark populations cause other ocean animals to become sick or weak

2. [Part B] Which detail best supports the answer to question 1?

• “That fear is mainly due to one species . . . .”
• “Their numbers have mainly been depleted because of overfishing.”
• “Many sharks are also accidentally scooped up in nets meant to catch other fish.”
• “If sharks were to disappear, the entire food chain, down to the smallest plant-like organisms, could be thrown off balance.”

3. Catherine Macdonald wants readers to understand that ____.

• most sharks are dangerous to humans
• protecting sharks begins with understanding their role in their ecosystem
• everyone should love sharks
• shark attacks are likely to increase

4. What is helping to solve the problem of declining shark populations?

• rules about people swimming in oceans
• an increase in beach patrols
• U.S. bans on the hunting of some sharks
• global bans on shark fin soup

5. Why is plastic often sent to landfills?

• Most recycling facilities have closed.
• Plastic decomposes quickly in landfills.
• It is cheaper than recycling the plastic.
• Landfill workers sort plastic for recycling.

6. Based on the text, readers can conclude that ____.

• litter has little effect on the planet
• litter is harmful to ocean life
• storm drains keep litter out of oceans
• straws are the most dangerous type of litter

7. The main purpose of the sidebar, “Symbol Smarts,” is to explain how to ____.

• tell what plastic a product is made from
• get companies to use less plastic
• cut down on single-use plastics
• find out your town’s recycling rules

8. Which is described as one of the key themes of Big Tree?

• the challenges that change can bring
• the differences between books and movies
• the importance of working together to survive
• the importance of being accurate

9. Based on the article, which statement would Big Tree author Brian Selznick be most likely to agree with?

• Writing a book is usually a quick process.
• Readers can often find inspiration in books.
• All stories should begin as books before being turned into movies.
• All books should be based on factual information.