Unit 2 - Informational Text & Inquiry

Bees play a crucial role in pollination, helping plants reproduce by transferring pollen from one flower to another. However, in recent years, bee populations have been declining due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. This decline poses a significant risk to agriculture, as many crops depend on pollinators to produce fruit and seeds.

What can you infer about the importance of addressing the decline in bee populations?

• It is mainly an environmental concern with little impact on humans.

• Protecting bee populations is essential for maintaining global food supply.

• Climate change alone is responsible for the decrease in bee populations.

• Pollination by bees is not necessary for most plants to grow.

Recycling is a process that helps reduce waste by turning used materials into new products. While many people recycle paper, plastic, and glass, some items, like electronics, require special facilities. E-waste, or discarded electronics, contains hazardous materials that can harm the environment if not handled properly. It’s important to ensure these items are recycled responsibly

Based on the passage, what can you infer about the challenges of recycling e-waste?

• E-waste is easier to recycle than paper, plastic, and glass.

• Recycling e-waste requires specific facilities due to its hazardous materials.

• Most people already recycle electronics responsibly

• Hazardous materials in e-waste have no impact on the environment

Coral reefs are often referred to as the 'rainforests of the sea' because of their biodiversity. They provide shelter for thousands of marine species and protect coastlines from erosion. Unfortunately, rising ocean temperatures and pollution have caused widespread coral bleaching, threatening these vibrant ecosystems.

What can you infer about the consequences of coral bleaching?

• Coral bleaching has no impact on marine life.

• Coral bleaching may lead to the loss of biodiversity in marine ecosystems

• Coral reefs are no longer important for coastal protection.

• Pollution has a greater effect on reefs than ocean temperatures

Electric cars are becoming more popular as people look for eco-friendly transportation options. Unlike traditional cars, electric vehicles (EVs) do not produce harmful emissions from burning gasoline. However, the production of EV batteries requires mining for rare earth metals, which can have significant environmental and ethical impacts

What can you infer about the challenges of using electric cars as a solution to environmental problems?

• Electric cars do not reduce emissions at all.

• The production of EV batteries creates its own set of environmental concerns.

• Mining for rare earth metals has no connection to EV production.

• Gasoline-powered cars are better for the environment than EVs

National parks were established to preserve the natural beauty of landscapes and protect wildlife. Visitors to parks are encouraged to follow 'Leave No Trace' principles, which include staying on marked trails, disposing of waste properly, and avoiding interactions with wild animals. These rules are critical to maintaining the parks for future generations.

What can you infer about the purpose of the 'Leave No Trace' principles?

• They aim to limit the number of visitors allowed in national parks

• They are designed to keep visitors from seeing wildlife.

• They help ensure that the environment remains undisturbed for future visitors and wildlife.

• They are rules that only apply to parks with endangered species.

Volunteering at local shelters not only helps the community but also gives people a sense of purpose. When individuals contribute their time to a cause, they create connections and make a difference."

What is the author’s primary purpose in this passage?

• To inform readers about the benefits of volunteering.

• To persuade readers to spend less time volunteering.

• To entertain readers with a story about volunteering.

• To describe the challenges of working at a shelter.

Fast food might be convenient, but eating it too often can lead to health problems. A balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is essential for staying healthy."

What message is the author trying to communicate?

• Fast food should never be eaten under any circumstances.

• Eating healthy foods is important for maintaining good health.

• Fruits and vegetables are more expensive than fast food.

• Convenience is the most important aspect of eating.

Recycling is one of the easiest ways to help protect the planet. By separating your paper, plastic, and glass, you can reduce waste in landfills and contribute to a cleaner environment for future generations.

What is the author’s purpose in this text

• To argue that recycling is too difficult to manage

• To encourage readers to make recycling a habit.

• To explain how landfills are created.

• To entertain readers with a recycling story.

Many people believe that video games are only a source of entertainment. However, some games can teach valuable skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and strategic thinking.

What is the author’s message in this passage?

• Video games are harmful and should be avoided.

• Video games can provide more than just entertainment.

• All video games are designed to teach life skills.

• Playing video games does not require thinking.

Water is our most valuable resource, but many people take it for granted. Simple steps like fixing leaks and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth can save gallons of water each day.

What is the primary purpose of this text?

• To describe the process of fixing leaks.

• To persuade readers to use water more responsibly.

• To entertain readers with stories about water conservation.

• To explain how water resources are distributed.