Reading Comprehension online exercise for Primary - Free Printable

Reading Comprehension Answers

1. What is the author’s purpose? To inform, to entertain or to persuade?
The author's purpose is to inform. The passage provides factual information about the use of masks in Ancient Greek plays, including their materials, design, and functions, without trying to entertain or convince the reader of a particular opinion.

2. According to the passage, the ‘features of the mask’ show:
The features of the mask show how the character feels. The passage states: "The features of the masks showed the feelings of the particular character." This indicates that facial expressions on the masks were designed to convey emotions like fear, anger, or sadness.

3. Write a synonym for the word ‘audience’ as used in line 10.
A synonym for “audience” is “spectators.” (Other possible synonyms include “viewers,” “onlookers,” or “crowd.”)

4. Name one other material that could have been used to make the masks?
One other material that could have been used to make the masks is clay. (Other reasonable answers might include fabric, metal, or plaster, though the passage specifies leather or wood.)

5. What else do you think masks can be used for other than plays?
Masks can also be used for cultural ceremonies, religious rituals, festivals, or even in modern-day Halloween costumes. They may serve as symbols of identity, protection, or disguise in various traditions around the world.

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Explanation of Solutions:

- Question 1: The tone and content of the passage are educational and descriptive, focusing on historical facts about masks in Ancient Greece. There is no attempt to entertain with humor or persuade the reader to adopt a belief, so the purpose is clearly to inform.

- Question 2: The key sentence is: "The features of the masks showed the feelings of the particular character," which directly supports the answer “how the character feels.”

- Question 3: “Audience” refers to the people watching the play. A synonym must reflect this meaning—“spectators” fits perfectly.

- Question 4: The passage mentions leather or wood. Any other common material used historically for masks (like clay, bone, or paper mache) would be acceptable.

- Question 5: This is an open-ended question requiring reasoning based on general knowledge. Responses should be logical and relevant, such as using masks in celebrations, religious practices, or for personal expression.

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