How to Survive in the Desert - Vocabulary Quiz

What does “sparsely” mean?

• Extremely hot or humid

• Thinly scattered or in small numbers

• Quickly or violently

• A way to signal for help

Which best matches the meaning of “duration”?

• The length of time something lasts

• A bright piece of clothing

• A tall cactus

• A layer of protection

Which best describes “distress” (as in a “distress signal”)?

• A safe and comfortable location

• Serious danger or need for help

• A type of desert flower

• A broken-down vehicle

What is the meaning of “heat prostration”?

• A sudden, heavy rainstorm

• A serious medical condition caused by very high temperatures and lack of bodily fluids

• A winter illness caused by extreme cold

• A location with shade and water

What is “hypothermia”?

• A dangerous drop in body temperature

• A large group of desert animals

• Heat stroke from extreme heat

• A common desert plant

Which answer matches the meaning of “evaporation”?

• The process by which a liquid changes to a gas

• A desert plant with thorns

• A wide canyon in the mountains

• The slow cooling of the body at night

In the text, it says, “Don’t ration water.” Which answer best describes the meaning of the word “ration” in that sentence?

• To fill containers with water

• To strictly limit or control the amount used

• To share resources freely

• To waste supplies unnecessarily

What does “vegetation” mean?

• Animals in desert climates

• A sign that indicates trouble

• Plants, trees, or greenery in an area

• Extra supplies kept in your car

What does “pith” refer to (like in a cactus or an orange)?

• The outer spines on a cactus

• The thick bark found on trees

• The soft, spongy tissue in certain plants

• The flower petals of a cactus

In the context of hiking, “blazes” are:

• Brightly glowing embers in a fire

• Loud alarm signals in the wilderness

• Marks or signs that show a trail

• Swift changes in the weather