Have you ever explored a cave? There are lots of passageways, cool formations, and even some creatures to see. It takes millions of years for a cave to form. Many caves are made from a soft rock called limestone. When water flows over this type of rock, it causes it to dissolve, leaving open passages and creating rooms. The water formations found in caves are called stalactites and stalagmites. They are made by the constant dripping of mineral-rich water. Some animals love the dark, wet environments that caves provide. These animals include bats, spiders, and bear.

Which piece of evidence helps explain how caves are formed?

Mars is our neighbor planet and has several interesting similarities to Earth. Mars, also known as the Red Planet, is a rocky planet with an active atmosphere. Mars has seasons, ice caps, and land form, such as volcanoes and canyons. Scientists have proven that Mars has experienced ancient flooding. One day on Mars lasts 24.6 hours, which is very similar to Earths’ 24-hour days. With all these similarities to our home planet, scientists often wonder if life will exist for humans on Mars in the future.

How does the author develop the point that Mars is like Earth?

Next time you pick up your electronics to listen to music or movies, you can thank James E. West. He is not well-know, but most Americans us his invention daily. Born in 1931, West was fascinated with electricity at a young age. This prompted his career as a physicist. In 1957, he worked with a fellow scientist to create a compact microphone. It is estimated that 90 percent of microphones today use his technology, including hearing aids, cell phones, headphones and laptops.

Which quote from the text supports the idea that most Americans use his invention daily?

Roadrunners are birds that are well adapted and important to their desert environment. They live in the southwest regions of North America. Their name comes from their habit of running along the road, usually toward cars. They do this because they are extremely territorial and want to chase away intruders. Measuring 18-24 inches in height, these birds can run up to 26 miles per hour. Their bodies do not require any extra water to drink besides what they get from their food. A roadrunner’s diet consists of a variety of insects, but they can prey on lizards and dangerous rattlesnakes.

Which quote supports the point that roadrunners are well adapted to living in the desert?

Hot air balloons have been around since the late 1780's. The large balloon on top is called an envelope. It holds all the hot air created from an open flame. It can float upward because the air in the balloon has a lower density than the outside air. Typically, passengers and pilots ride in a basket just below the balloon. They can control where the balloon goes by adjusting the vent at the top of the envelope. Festivals are held all around the world so that people can experience this unique form of travel.

What is the author’s main point?

The United States Military is one of the largest armies in the world. There are well over a million active members across the five branches of the military. The five branches include: Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard and Marine Corps. Each of the branches have different duties and responsibilities. The president is the Commander in Chief of the military. He is supposed to make decisions to keep the country’s borders and American citizens safe.

What evidence supports the point that the US military is large?

The Pueblo Indian tribe settled in the area that are now New Mexico and Arizona. The Pueblo tribe are well-known for the amazing homes and roads they built. Using clay and stones, they created durable structures that have lasted for hundreds of years. Adobe material was being made using earth, water and straw. These homes were built right into the cliff, several stories high. The Pueblo tribe also constructed many roads between their towns. The Great Road is a famous Pueblo road that ran for over 30 miles.

Which quote support the claim that Pueblos had amazing homes?

A drought happens when there is a lack of rainfall for a long period of time. Some areas of the world are more likely to experience a drought than others. People that live in those areas have to be cautious about how they use their daily water supply. When a drought happens, it directly affects their everyday lives. This extreme weather can also increase the chances of dangerous wildfires, landslides and flash floods.

Which piece of evidence best supports the point that a drought is extreme weather?

Have you heard of Niagara Falls? Nestled between the United States and Canada, these waterfalls are a must-see! They were created by a glacier about 10,000 years ago and provided a huge source of hydroelectric power. Niagara Falls consists of three separate waterfalls: American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls. American Fall and Bridal Falls are both on United States territory only. Horseshoe Falls is the largest of the three and is on both American and Canadian territory. Together they generate the highest water drop of any on Earth.

Which TWO quotes support the claim that Niagara Falls is a “must-see?”