Daily Reading Comprehension Grade 7 (1) Interactive Worksheet - Edform - Free Printable

SOLUTION AND EXPLANATION

Let's go through each question and answer based on the passage provided, using factual evidence from the text.

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#### 1. Which evidence supports the idea that Khafre built the Sphinx?

Answer: B) The Khafre Valley Temple was built with stone from around the Sphinx.

Explanation:
The passage states:
> "Stone blocks cut out in order to carve the Sphinx were used to build the Khafre Valley Temple at about the same time."

This implies that the construction of the Sphinx and the temple occurred simultaneously, and since the temple is linked to Khafre (his pyramid is behind the Sphinx), this supports the idea that Khafre was involved in building the Sphinx. This is direct factual evidence linking Khafre to the Sphinx’s creation.

Other options:
- A: No mention of a dream involving Khafre seeing the Sphinx.
- C: Khafre’s body is in his pyramid, not inside the Sphinx.
- D: No documents are mentioned as saying Khafre built it—this is a belief, not documented proof.

✔ So, B is the best supported by evidence.

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#### 2. Why is the Sphinx considered to be mysterious?

Answer: C) No one knows why it was built.

Explanation:
The first sentence says:
> "No one knows for sure exactly when, why, or how it was built."

This directly supports choice C. While other facts like size or being buried in sand are true, the core mystery lies in its purpose and origin, which remains unknown.

Other options:
- A: It *is* believed to be the biggest sculpture ever made, but that’s not what makes it mysterious.
- B: Environmental damage is a current issue, not the reason for its mystery.
- D: Being buried is part of its history, not the main mystery.

✔ So, C is the most accurate answer.

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#### 3. Which evidence supports the idea that the Sphinx is an ancient creation?

Answer: A) Khafre ruled roughly 4,600 years ago.

Explanation:
The passage says:
> "Most archaeologists believe that the Sphinx was built about 4,600 years ago by a pharaoh... named Khafre."

So, if Khafre ruled about 4,600 years ago and built the Sphinx, that means the Sphinx is ancient.

Other options:
- B: Tourists visiting today doesn’t show age.
- C: Sand clearing in the 1850s is recent history, not evidence of antiquity.
- D: Its size doesn’t indicate age.

✔ So, A is the best evidence of its ancient origin.

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#### 4. Which evidence best supports the idea that the Sphinx looks like a mythical creature?

Answer: D) It has the body of a lion and the head of a man.

Explanation:
The passage states:
> "The Sphinx has the body of a lion and the head of a man, which gives it the appearance of a mythical creature."

This is a direct quote supporting option D.

Other options:
- A: Missing nose is due to damage, not mythic appearance.
- B: Living under sand is historical, not related to mythology.
- C: Dream appearances are legends, not physical traits.

✔ So, D is the correct and best-supported answer.

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STRATEGY PRACTICE:

> Which information from the passage would be most useful to someone concerned with saving the Sphinx? Why?

Answer:
The most useful information is:
> *"Now, however, wind, humidity, and smog are causing the Sphinx to crumble. Archaeologists must act quickly to preserve this mysterious symbol of Egypt."*

Why?
Because this sentence identifies the current threats to the Sphinx—environmental factors like wind, humidity, and pollution—that are actively damaging it. Knowing these causes helps preservationists develop strategies such as climate control, protective coverings, or pollution reduction efforts.

Additionally, the fact that the Sphinx was once buried in sand and now exposed may also help explain why it’s deteriorating faster now than before.

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✔ Final Answers:

| Question | Answer |
|--------|--------|
| 1 | B |
| 2 | C |
| 3 | A |
| 4 | D |

Strategy Practice:
The most useful information is that wind, humidity, and smog are causing the Sphinx to crumble, because this tells us what environmental factors need to be addressed to save it.