Understanding Ear Anatomy and Function

Why does the author describe the ear as an interconnected system?

• Each part works alone

• The parts work together to send sound to the brain

• The brain does all the work

• The ear is visible

  
  

Identify the 3 parts of the ear.

a

b

c

inner ear

ear wax

middle ear

outer ear

Why does the author explain that only parts of the ear are visible?

• To show ears are weak

• To explain animals’ ears

• To compare ears and eyes

• To help readers infer that many parts work inside the head

Which detail explains how the outer ear helps hearing?

• It balances the body

• It sends messages to muscles

• It collects and funnels sound waves

• It controls nerves

The word vibrate in the text means —

• to freeze

• to move back and forth quickly

• to grow larger

• to disappear

How does the comparison to a drum help the reader?

• It helps readers visualize vibration

• It gives an opinion

• It adds humor

• It changes the topic

  
  

What does the word cochlea most nearly mean as used in the text?

• A bone that protects the ear

• A snail-shaped part that helps hearing

• A tube that controls air pressure

• A nerve that sends messages

Why might cochlear implants help people who cannot hear?

• They work like the cochlea

• They replace the outer ear

• They clean the ear canal

• They strengthen bones

  
  

What happens when sound waves hit the eardrum?

• The brain shuts down

• The cochlea stops working

• The canal fills with air

• The eardrum vibrates

Why does the author explain the outer ear first?

• It is the smallest part

• It controls balance

• It starts the hearing process

• It is hidden