1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
10 Cumulative
Grade 10 Cumulative
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
1/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Come to Kielder!
If you love the great outdoors, then Kielder is the perfect place for you. Boasting the largest man-made reservoir in Northern Europe and over 250
square miles of working forest, there is always something to do or see in this beautiful part of Northumberland.
The forest itself is made up of mainly conifers, such as the Sitka spruce, the Norway spruce and the lodgepole pine. Other trees that can be found in
the area include broadleaves such as the beech, the oak, and the birch. The harvesting of timer for saw-milling and fuel provides opportunities to
improve the riparian habitat, although most felled areas are replanted with trees native to the landscape.
The forest is home to some spectacular wildlife, including the largest population of red squirrels in the U.K. and many other mammals, such as pine
martens, otters and roe deer. Grasslands to the north of the area provide grazing for hardy Exmoor Ponies, who also help manage the area by ridding
it of scrub that might threaten wildflowers and grasses. Birds of prey can often be seen overhead and in 2018, almost ten years after recolonization
began in the area following a 200-year absence, there were five nesting pairs of ospreys – visitors can find out more at the Bird of Prey centre. Talks
are currently underway regarding the reintroduction of the Eurasian lynx to the forest, 1,300 years after it was last seen in the U.K.
Visitors can find out about the numerous recreational activities on offer at Kielder by dropping into the information centre, located on the edge of Kielder
Village and formerly a hunting lodge built in the 18th century by the Duke of Northumberland. Whether you like fishing, mountain-biking, rallying,
archery, horse-riding, or marathon running, every sporting taste is catered for at Kielder. If you prefer things a little more sedate, then a walk around the
lake to take in not just the stunning scenery but thought-provoking art installations is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Finished off with coffee and
cake, of course!
And of course, no trip to Kielder would be complete without a visit to the Kielder Observatory where you can marvel at the stars and planets in the
largest area of protected dark night sky in Europe, designated Gold Tier Dark Sky Park status by the International Dark Skies Association (IDA) in
December 2013. Regular events are held at the Observatory, and twice a year, the Kielder Forest Star Camp hosts children from all over the world,
introducing them to the wonders of the universe, without interference from light pollution.
Written by Claire Smith
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
2/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
1
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Authors have different purposes when they write. Read the article about Kielder in Northumberland, U.K. Match the evidence from the
text to the explanations of what the author is doing with each statement.
Talks are currently underway regarding the reintroduction
of the Eurasian lynx to the forest, 1,300 years after it was
last seen in the U.K.
Whether you like fishing, mountain-biking, rallying,
archery, horse-riding or marathon running, every sporting
taste is catered for at Kielder.
[...] including the largest population of red squirrels in the
U.K. and many other mammals, such as pine martens,
otters and roe deer.
[...] designated Gold Tier Dark Sky Park status by the
International Dark Skies Association (I.D.A.) in
December 2013.
 The author is explaining the I.D.A. categorization system.
 The author is revealing their own favorite sporting activities.
 The author is showing the variety of activities on offer.
 The author is showing the importance of the area for astronomy.
 The author is telling the reader about the wildlife to be seen.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
3/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
 The author is persuading the reader to support the reintroduction of lynx.
 The author is highlighting the importance of the area for conservation.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
4/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Come to Kielder!
If you love the great outdoors, then Kielder is the perfect place for you. Boasting the largest man-made reservoir in Northern Europe and over 250
square miles of working forest, there is always something to do or see in this beautiful part of Northumberland.
The forest itself is made up of mainly conifers, such as the Sitka spruce, the Norway spruce and the lodgepole pine. Other trees that can be found in
the area include broadleaves such as the beech, the oak, and the birch. The harvesting of timer for saw-milling and fuel provides opportunities to
improve the riparian habitat, although most felled areas are replanted with trees native to the landscape.
The forest is home to some spectacular wildlife, including the largest population of red squirrels in the U.K. and many other mammals, such as pine
martens, otters and roe deer. Grasslands to the north of the area provide grazing for hardy Exmoor Ponies, who also help manage the area by ridding
it of scrub that might threaten wildflowers and grasses. Birds of prey can often be seen overhead and in 2018, almost ten years after recolonization
began in the area following a 200-year absence, there were five nesting pairs of ospreys – visitors can find out more at the Bird of Prey centre. Talks
are currently underway regarding the reintroduction of the Eurasian lynx to the forest, 1,300 years after it was last seen in the U.K.
Visitors can find out about the numerous recreational activities on offer at Kielder by dropping into the information centre, located on the edge of Kielder
Village and formerly a hunting lodge built in the 18th century by the Duke of Northumberland. Whether you like fishing, mountain-biking, rallying,
archery, horse-riding, or marathon running, every sporting taste is catered for at Kielder. If you prefer things a little more sedate, then a walk around the
lake to take in not just the stunning scenery but thought-provoking art installations is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Finished off with coffee and
cake, of course!
And of course, no trip to Kielder would be complete without a visit to the Kielder Observatory where you can marvel at the stars and planets in the
largest area of protected dark night sky in Europe, designated Gold Tier Dark Sky Park status by the International Dark Skies Association (IDA) in
December 2013. Regular events are held at the Observatory, and twice a year, the Kielder Forest Star Camp hosts children from all over the world,
introducing them to the wonders of the universe, without interference from light pollution.
Written by Claire Smith
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
5/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
2
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Read the article again. What is the author's most likely purpose?
To inform with statistics
To entertain with humor
To persuade with advertising
To persuade with rhetoric
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
6/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Come to Kielder!
If you love the great outdoors, then Kielder is the perfect place for you. Boasting the largest man-made reservoir in Northern Europe and over 250
square miles of working forest, there is always something to do or see in this beautiful part of Northumberland.
The forest itself is made up of mainly conifers, such as the Sitka spruce, the Norway spruce and the lodgepole pine. Other trees that can be found in
the area include broadleaves such as the beech, the oak, and the birch. The harvesting of timer for saw-milling and fuel provides opportunities to
improve the riparian habitat, although most felled areas are replanted with trees native to the landscape.
The forest is home to some spectacular wildlife, including the largest population of red squirrels in the U.K. and many other mammals, such as pine
martens, otters and roe deer. Grasslands to the north of the area provide grazing for hardy Exmoor Ponies, who also help manage the area by ridding
it of scrub that might threaten wildflowers and grasses. Birds of prey can often be seen overhead and in 2018, almost ten years after recolonization
began in the area following a 200-year absence, there were five nesting pairs of ospreys – visitors can find out more at the Bird of Prey centre. Talks
are currently underway regarding the reintroduction of the Eurasian lynx to the forest, 1,300 years after it was last seen in the U.K.
Visitors can find out about the numerous recreational activities on offer at Kielder by dropping into the information centre, located on the edge of Kielder
Village and formerly a hunting lodge built in the 18th century by the Duke of Northumberland. Whether you like fishing, mountain-biking, rallying,
archery, horse-riding, or marathon running, every sporting taste is catered for at Kielder. If you prefer things a little more sedate, then a walk around the
lake to take in not just the stunning scenery but thought-provoking art installations is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Finished off with coffee and
cake, of course!
And of course, no trip to Kielder would be complete without a visit to the Kielder Observatory where you can marvel at the stars and planets in the
largest area of protected dark night sky in Europe, designated Gold Tier Dark Sky Park status by the International Dark Skies Association (IDA) in
December 2013. Regular events are held at the Observatory, and twice a year, the Kielder Forest Star Camp hosts children from all over the world,
introducing them to the wonders of the universe, without interference from light pollution.
Written by Claire Smith
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
7/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
3
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Being able to understand or work out technical language is essential when we are reading texts about topics that we are unfamiliar with.
It also helps us to follow instructions, gain knowledge in an unfamiliar area, and make sense of complex information.
Read the article about Kielder again. Match each word to its topic-specific meaning.
light pollution
conifer
broadleaf
reservoir
recolonization
riparian
scrub
felled
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
8/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
 cut down
 an evergreen tree with needle-like leaves that produces a fruit called a cone
 a deciduous tree that has broad, flat leaves
 area of bushy vegetation with few trees
 the detrimental effect of man-made light sources on the night sky
 an artificial lake for storing water
 an area at the edge of a river
 the act of returning plants or animals to an area that they previously inhabited
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
9/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
4
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Drag each sentence into the correct box, depending on whether the word in bold is being used in a topic-specific or an everyday way.
Topic-specific
 She couldn't fathom the trigonometry at all.
Everyday
 The airplane was parked on the apron for servicing.
 Fold the beaten egg whites into the mixture with a spatula.
 The troll jumped out from under the bridge and frightened the small goat.
 You should wear an apron for painting to keep your clothes clean.
 She rests at a depth of about 4,000 fathoms.
 There are just too many trolls on social media these days.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
 Seamus was twitching the rarest bird in the country.
 The cat's little whiskers were twitching as it slept.
 Mom took the clothes out of the drier so that Dad can fold them.
10/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
A Light Not So Fantastic?
Since the invention of the lightbulb in the 19th century (by Thomas Edison of the U.S.A. or Joseph Swann of the U.K., depending on which side of the
Atlantic your historian resides), the world has been getting brighter. Most of us believe the proliferation of light to be a good thing, extending the
working day, improving productivity, and increasing safety.
But is this constant exposure artificial light good for us and good for the planet? Many scientists think not. According to the World Atlas of Artificial Night
Sky Brightness, published in 2016, 80% of the world’s population lives under skyglow, defined by the International Dark-Sky Association as “the
brightening of the night sky over inhabited areas”.
As well as being annoying for backyard astronomers, light pollution may have potentially harmful effects for all of us. Studies have found a direct
correlation between continued exposure to artificial light and an increased risk of health issues including obesity, diabetes, breast cancer, and
depression.
Night time exposure to artificial light disrupts our circadian rhythm, or biological clock, which in turn suppresses the production of melatonin within the
human body. Melatonin is a hormone that induces sleep and boosts the immune system, as well as supports the function of the thyroid, pancreas, and
adrenal glands. And there’s more bad news – the blue light produced by computer screens and cell phones is thought to be particularly harmful.
The disruption caused to the natural cycle of day and night by artificial light has had a dramatic impact on wildlife and ecosystems. Both prey and
predator use light and darkness as a means to survival, and if the line between the two is blurred, this can have devastating consequences. Breeding
rituals are disturbed, affecting reproduction and reducing populations.
Migratory birds can be confused by artificial light, causing them to migrate too early or too late or wander off course and miss opportunities for
breeding, nesting, and foraging. The insects that birds feed upon are drawn to artificial light, often fatally, and a decrease in insects means a decrease
in pollination, which leads to problems with the growth of flora.
Sea turtles have been noticeably affected by light pollution. These magnificent ocean-dwelling creatures need dark shores to lay their eggs on, but
these are becoming increasingly hard to find. Eggs laid on beaches bathed in artificial light are vulnerable to predators, and hatchlings can become
confused when trying to find their way to the ocean, turning to the bright lights of towns and villages rather than heading towards the light on the
horizon.
And finally, light pollution has an economic impact. Light that spills up into the sky (or anywhere else where it is not wanted) is wasted light. The U.S.
Department of Energy estimated in 2011 that about 35% of light is wasted as a result of lighting being poorly aimed or shielded, equating to around $3
billion a year worth of energy lost to skyglow. Many cities are now introducing legislation requiring outdoor lighting to be properly shielded to reduce
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
11/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
unwanted light dispersal. Recent studies have failed to find evidence that outdoor lighting protects people against crime – indeed, some people believe
that excessive street lighting simply serves to make property and potential victims of crime easier for the perpetrators of crime to target.
But, like all forms of pollution, there are things that can be done to reduce the impact. Individuals can make sure to only use lights when necessary, and
keep blinds and curtains drawn at night. Choose bulbs with a 3000K color temperature or below, and use timers or motion sensors to make sure lights
only come on when they’re needed. Perhaps the most important thing that we can all do is to make sure we educate ourselves and others, including
policy makers, of the detrimental effect that light pollution can have on us all. Then, like our ancestors before us, we can all look up and wonder at the
stars.
Find out more by visiting www.darksky.org.
Written by Claire Smith
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
12/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
5
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
In the previous article about Kielder in Northumberland, we learned that the area has been designated the Gold Tier Dark Sky Park status
by the International Dark Skies Association because of its lack of light pollution.
Read more about light pollution, then select True or False for each statement.
True
False
The brightening of the night sky over inhabited areas is called 'skyglow'.
The blue light produced by computer screens is not as harmful as other forms of artificial light.
Outdoor lighting has been proven to reduce instances of crime and increase safety.
The lightbulb was invented in the 1800s.
Melatonin is a hormone that prevents sleep and weakens the immune system.
Sea turtle hatchlings use the light from the horizon to find their way to the ocean.
We can gain a new understanding about light pollution by synthesizing the information in the text.
The purpose of a magazine article such as this is to inform, educate, or entertain.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
13/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
6
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Think back to the article you have just read about light pollution. Drag the correct word or phrase into each box to complete the text
synthesizing the information.
The first thing I did to synthesize the information in the article about light pollution was to read the
the text was about. I suspected that the article was going to look at the
to find out what
aspects of artificial light and try to
the reader to change his or her behavior in some way. I already try not to use my computer or cell phone before
bed as I know from news articles that the light from these devices can affect sleep, and sleep is very important to the body. Generally though,
I think that artificial light has helped us to feel safer at night and to work longer hours, which is
for productivity and
the economy.
While reading, I paused regularly to focus on my thinking and how it was
as I took in new information. For example,
when I read the part "The disruption caused to the natural cycle of day and night by artificial light has had a dramatic impact on wildlife and
ecosystems", I realized that artificial light may have effects on the natural world that I
I learned that my previous thoughts about the benefits of artificial light didn't take into account the
.
impact on the
world. Before reading, I thought that artificial light was a totally positive thing, but now I know that it can have negative impacts on human
health and on animals. My thinking has changed because I read a clear explanation of the problem.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
14/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
I had assumed that light pollution was something that only happens in big cities, but the article presented me with information that
this thinking. It has made me reconsider my own approach to using artificial lights, and I will be more conscious in
the future about what lightbulbs I am using and what my local government is doing to cut down on light pollution.
 confused
 bad
 hadn't considered
 good
 negative
 title
 small
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
 manipulate
 persuade
 positive
 conclusion
 wider
 changing
 had ignored
 challenged
15/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
A Light Not So Fantastic?
Since the invention of the lightbulb in the 19th century (by Thomas Edison of the U.S.A. or Joseph Swann of the U.K., depending on which side of the
Atlantic your historian resides), the world has been getting brighter. Most of us believe the proliferation of light to be a good thing, extending the
working day, improving productivity, and increasing safety.
But is this constant exposure artificial light good for us and good for the planet? Many scientists think not. According to the World Atlas of Artificial Night
Sky Brightness, published in 2016, 80% of the world’s population lives under skyglow, defined by the International Dark-Sky Association as “the
brightening of the night sky over inhabited areas”.
As well as being annoying for backyard astronomers, light pollution may have potentially harmful effects for all of us. Studies have found a direct
correlation between continued exposure to artificial light and an increased risk of health issues including obesity, diabetes, breast cancer, and
depression.
Night time exposure to artificial light disrupts our circadian rhythm, or biological clock, which in turn suppresses the production of melatonin within the
human body. Melatonin is a hormone that induces sleep and boosts the immune system, as well as supports the function of the thyroid, pancreas, and
adrenal glands. And there’s more bad news – the blue light produced by computer screens and cell phones is thought to be particularly harmful.
The disruption caused to the natural cycle of day and night by artificial light has had a dramatic impact on wildlife and ecosystems. Both prey and
predator use light and darkness as a means to survival, and if the line between the two is blurred, this can have devastating consequences. Breeding
rituals are disturbed, affecting reproduction and reducing populations.
Migratory birds can be confused by artificial light, causing them to migrate too early or too late or wander off course and miss opportunities for
breeding, nesting, and foraging. The insects that birds feed upon are drawn to artificial light, often fatally, and a decrease in insects means a decrease
in pollination, which leads to problems with the growth of flora.
Sea turtles have been noticeably affected by light pollution. These magnificent ocean-dwelling creatures need dark shores to lay their eggs on, but
these are becoming increasingly hard to find. Eggs laid on beaches bathed in artificial light are vulnerable to predators, and hatchlings can become
confused when trying to find their way to the ocean, turning to the bright lights of towns and villages rather than heading towards the light on the
horizon.
And finally, light pollution has an economic impact. Light that spills up into the sky (or anywhere else where it is not wanted) is wasted light. The U.S.
Department of Energy estimated in 2011 that about 35% of light is wasted as a result of lighting being poorly aimed or shielded, equating to around $3
billion a year worth of energy lost to skyglow. Many cities are now introducing legislation requiring outdoor lighting to be properly shielded to reduce
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
16/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
unwanted light dispersal. Recent studies have failed to find evidence that outdoor lighting protects people against crime – indeed, some people believe
that excessive street lighting simply serves to make property and potential victims of crime easier for the perpetrators of crime to target.
But, like all forms of pollution, there are things that can be done to reduce the impact. Individuals can make sure to only use lights when necessary, and
keep blinds and curtains drawn at night. Choose bulbs with a 3000K color temperature or below, and use timers or motion sensors to make sure lights
only come on when they’re needed. Perhaps the most important thing that we can all do is to make sure we educate ourselves and others, including
policy makers, of the detrimental effect that light pollution can have on us all. Then, like our ancestors before us, we can all look up and wonder at the
stars.
Find out more by visiting www.darksky.org.
Written by Claire Smith
7
Information reports provide important details about a subject or topic that the reader can then use to draw a final conclusion.
Read the text about light pollution again. Select the most appropriate final conclusion.
Animals must adapt to artificial light, evolving new ways of hunting and breeding to make use of the brightness.
There is no evidence that artificial light is harmful to humans and the environment and reports that say otherwise are scaremongering.
Light pollution is an inevitable part of modern-day life and the benefits of artificial light outweigh the dangers of light pollution.
It is important to make efforts to tackle light pollution wherever possible to reduce the effects on the environment and human health.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
17/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
A Light Not So Fantastic?
Since the invention of the lightbulb in the 19th century (by Thomas Edison of the U.S.A. or Joseph Swann of the U.K., depending on which side of the
Atlantic your historian resides), the world has been getting brighter. Most of us believe the proliferation of light to be a good thing, extending the
working day, improving productivity, and increasing safety.
But is this constant exposure artificial light good for us and good for the planet? Many scientists think not. According to the World Atlas of Artificial Night
Sky Brightness, published in 2016, 80% of the world’s population lives under skyglow, defined by the International Dark-Sky Association as “the
brightening of the night sky over inhabited areas”.
As well as being annoying for backyard astronomers, light pollution may have potentially harmful effects for all of us. Studies have found a direct
correlation between continued exposure to artificial light and an increased risk of health issues including obesity, diabetes, breast cancer, and
depression.
Night time exposure to artificial light disrupts our circadian rhythm, or biological clock, which in turn suppresses the production of melatonin within the
human body. Melatonin is a hormone that induces sleep and boosts the immune system, as well as supports the function of the thyroid, pancreas, and
adrenal glands. And there’s more bad news – the blue light produced by computer screens and cell phones is thought to be particularly harmful.
The disruption caused to the natural cycle of day and night by artificial light has had a dramatic impact on wildlife and ecosystems. Both prey and
predator use light and darkness as a means to survival, and if the line between the two is blurred, this can have devastating consequences. Breeding
rituals are disturbed, affecting reproduction and reducing populations.
Migratory birds can be confused by artificial light, causing them to migrate too early or too late or wander off course and miss opportunities for
breeding, nesting, and foraging. The insects that birds feed upon are drawn to artificial light, often fatally, and a decrease in insects means a decrease
in pollination, which leads to problems with the growth of flora.
Sea turtles have been noticeably affected by light pollution. These magnificent ocean-dwelling creatures need dark shores to lay their eggs on, but
these are becoming increasingly hard to find. Eggs laid on beaches bathed in artificial light are vulnerable to predators, and hatchlings can become
confused when trying to find their way to the ocean, turning to the bright lights of towns and villages rather than heading towards the light on the
horizon.
And finally, light pollution has an economic impact. Light that spills up into the sky (or anywhere else where it is not wanted) is wasted light. The U.S.
Department of Energy estimated in 2011 that about 35% of light is wasted as a result of lighting being poorly aimed or shielded, equating to around $3
billion a year worth of energy lost to skyglow. Many cities are now introducing legislation requiring outdoor lighting to be properly shielded to reduce
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
18/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
unwanted light dispersal. Recent studies have failed to find evidence that outdoor lighting protects people against crime – indeed, some people believe
that excessive street lighting simply serves to make property and potential victims of crime easier for the perpetrators of crime to target.
But, like all forms of pollution, there are things that can be done to reduce the impact. Individuals can make sure to only use lights when necessary, and
keep blinds and curtains drawn at night. Choose bulbs with a 3000K color temperature or below, and use timers or motion sensors to make sure lights
only come on when they’re needed. Perhaps the most important thing that we can all do is to make sure we educate ourselves and others, including
policy makers, of the detrimental effect that light pollution can have on us all. Then, like our ancestors before us, we can all look up and wonder at the
stars.
Find out more by visiting www.darksky.org.
Written by Claire Smith
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
19/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
8
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Which paragraph of the article about light pollution is the reader referring to with the following text-to-self connection?
I can relate to this because when I visited New York last year, I saw what looked like thousands of warblers caught in the light beams that
project into the sky in tribute to those who lost their lives when the twin towers of the World Trade Center were destroyed in an act of
terrorism in September 2001. I was told that whenever the bird count gets too high, the lights are switched off to allow the birds time to
get their bearings again and continue on their way.
2
3
1
5
4
8
7
6
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
20/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
9
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Match each text-to-self connection with the correct quote.
"If you prefer things a little more sedate, then a walk
around the lake to take in not just the stunning scenery
but thought-provoking art installations is the perfect way
to spend an afternoon.."
"Studies have found a direct correlation between
continued exposure to artificial light and an increased
risk of health issues including obesity, diabetes, breast
cancer, and depression."
"[...] indeed, some people believe that excessive street
lighting simply serves to make property and potential
victims of crime easier for the perpetrators of crime to
target."
"And there’s more bad news – the blue light produced by
computer screens and cell phones is thought to be
particularly harmful."
"Regular events are held at the Observatory, and twice a
year, the Kielder Forest Star Camp hosts children from
all over the world, introducing them to the wonders of the
universe, without interference from light pollution."
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
21/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills

I can relate to this because my family loves extreme sports, but I'm much happier taking leisure walks and relaxing when I'm on holiday.

This reminds me of the last time I used social media on my phone before bed. I really struggled to sleep after that and resolved not to look
at screens after 10pm.
 Because Kielder is a designated Dark Sky area, it is a really good place to study astronomy.

I remember when my friends and I went camping, hoping to see the Quadrantids meteor shower. We couldn't see a thing because of the
lights from the caravan park nearby.

The electric light bulb may not exactly have been 'invented' by Thomas Edison in 1879, but he did design the first commercially practical
incandescent light.
 I felt surprised when I read this because I always feel safer when I'm out at night if the area is well-lit.

I can relate to this because my uncle suffered from depression and had problems managing his weight after spending many years
working night shifts in a factory.

My favorite piece of artwork at Kielder is Wave Chamber. It acts as a camera obscura so that you can see an image of the lake on the
floor inside.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
22/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
10
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Most narratives share common elements. For example, beginning, rising action, climax, falling action, and ending. Genre is a way of
further sorting narratives into more specific groups with similar features.
In the novella Frankenstein, written by Mary Shelley in the early nineteenth century, Victor Frankenstein, a student of natural philosophy
and alchemy, reanimates a body that he has created from parts of corpses. Which two genres is this story most likely to belong to?​
Gothic horror
Adventure
Mystery
Romance
Fantasy
Mythic
Science fiction
Historical fiction
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
23/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
11
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Several of the themes explored in Frankenstein are typical to the Gothic horror and science fiction genres. Match each quote
from Frankenstein to the theme it is most related to.​
Revenge
Nature of Humanity
Longing
Appearances
Hubris

It was the secrets of heaven and earth that I desired to learn; and whether it was the outward substance of things or the inner spirit of
nature and the mysterious soul of man that occupied me, still my inquiries were directed to the metaphysical, or in it highest sense, the
physical secrets of the world. (Chapter 2)

For myself, there was one reward I promised myself from my detested toils—one consolation for my unparalleled sufferings; it was the
prospect of that day when, enfranchised from my miserable slavery, I might claim Elizabeth and forget the past in my union with her.
(Chapter 18)
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
24/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills

I was dependent on none and related to none. The path of my departure was free, and there was none to lament my annihilation. My
person was hideous and my stature gigantic. What did this mean? Who was I? What was I? Whence did I come? What was my
destination? These questions continually recurred, but I was unable to solve them. (Chapter 15)

His limbs were in proportion, and I had selected his features as beautiful. Beautiful! Great God! His yellow skin scarcely covered the
work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances
only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun-white sockets in which they
were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips. (Chapter 5)

"Cursed, cursed creator! Why did I live? Why, in that instant, did I not extinguish the spark of existence which you had so wantonly
bestowed? I know not; despair had not yet taken possession of me; my feelings were those of rage and revenge. I could with pleasure
have destroyed the cottage and its inhabitants and have glutted myself with their shrieks and misery.” (Chapter 16)
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
25/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Frankenstein
We entered the gloomy prison chamber and beheld Justine sitting on some straw at the farther end; her hands were manacled, and her head rested on
her knees. She rose on seeing us enter, and when we were left alone with her, she threw herself at the feet of Elizabeth, weeping bitterly. My cousin
wept also.
[...]
“Oh, Justine! Forgive me for having for one moment distrusted you. Why did you confess? But do not mourn, dear girl. Do not fear. I will proclaim, I will
prove your innocence. I will melt the stony hearts of your enemies by my tears and prayers. You shall not die! You, my playfellow, my companion, my
sister, perish on the scaffold! No! No! I never could survive so horrible a misfortune.”
Justine shook her head mournfully. “I do not fear to die,” she said; “that pang is past. God raises my weakness and gives me courage to endure the
worst. I leave a sad and bitter world; and if you remember me and think of me as of one unjustly condemned, I am resigned to the fate awaiting me.
Learn from me, dear lady, to submit in patience to the will of heaven!”
During this conversation I had retired to a corner of the prison room, where I could conceal the horrid anguish that possessed me. Despair! Who dared
talk of that? The poor victim, who on the morrow was to pass the awful boundary between life and death, felt not, as I did, such deep and bitter agony. I
gnashed my teeth and ground them together, uttering a groan that came from my inmost soul. Justine started. When she saw who it was, she
approached me and said, “Dear sir, you are very kind to visit me; you, I hope, do not believe that I am guilty?”
I could not answer. “No, Justine,” said Elizabeth; “he is more convinced of your innocence than I was, for even when he heard that you had confessed,
he did not credit it.”
“I truly thank him. In these last moments I feel the sincerest gratitude towards those who think of me with kindness. How sweet is the affection of others
to such a wretch as I am! It removes more than half my misfortune, and I feel as if I could die in peace now that my innocence is acknowledged by you,
dear lady, and your cousin.”
[...]
And on the morrow Justine died. Elizabeth’s heart-rending eloquence failed to move the judges from their settled conviction in the criminality of the
saintly sufferer. My passionate and indignant appeals were lost upon them. And when I received their cold answers and heard the harsh, unfeeling
reasoning of these men, my purposed avowal died away on my lips. Thus I might proclaim myself a madman, but not revoke the sentence passed
upon my wretched victim. She perished on the scaffold as a murderess!
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
26/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
From the tortures of my own heart, I turned to contemplate the deep and voiceless grief of my Elizabeth. This also was my doing! And my father’s woe,
and the desolation of that late so smiling home all was the work of my thrice-accursed hands! Ye weep, unhappy ones, but these are not your last
tears! Again shall you raise the funeral wail, and the sound of your lamentations shall again and again be heard! Frankenstein, your son, your kinsman,
your early, much-loved friend; he who would spend each vital drop of blood for your sakes, who has no thought nor sense of joy except as it is mirrored
also in your dear countenances, who would fill the air with blessings and spend his life in serving you—he bids you weep, to shed countless tears;
happy beyond his hopes, if thus inexorable fate be satisfied, and if the destruction pause before the peace of the grave have succeeded to your sad
torments!
Thus spoke my prophetic soul, as, torn by remorse, horror, and despair, I beheld those I loved spend vain sorrow upon the graves of William and
Justine, the first hapless victims to my unhallowed arts.
Written by Mary Shelley, 1816
12
An author does not always state ideas in a text explicitly. Details in a text can provide clues that you can piece together to draw
conclusions.
Read the extract from Frankenstein. Drawing conclusions from the text, is the following paragraph True or False?
The narrator knows more about the death of William than he is letting on. However, Elizabeth does not suspect the narrator of any
involvement in the murder. Justine is an honest and god-fearing individual, who has confessed to a murder she didn't commit to save
her soul. She is resigned to the fate handed down to her by her male superiors, conscious of her own position in society.
True
False
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
27/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
13
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
In the previous extract from Frankenstein, we saw different responses from Elizabeth and Victor (the narrator) to the condemnation to
death of Justine.
Looking at characters’ different responses to an event can tell us a lot about their relationship. Drag the correct word or phrase into
each box to complete the short analysis of the relationship between Elizabeth and Victor.
Elizabeth believes herself and Victor to have a
relationship and to be of one mind, which is shown when she
Victor in response to Justine's question: "Dear sir, you are very kind to visit me; you, I hope, do not believe that I am
guilty?"
In this extract, Elizabeth is portrayed as the epitome of
, weeping profusely at the plight of her servant, consumed with
grief following the murder of William. Conversely, Victor thinks only of his own
come, yet seems to have decided he is
. He knows that more devastation is to
to stop it before he even tried to. By speaking of 'inexplorable fate', Victor is
absolving himself of responsibility, resigning himself to the inevitability of more death and destruction. Victor is hiding a dark secret and this
access to his
allows the reader an insight into his character that Elizabeth does not have and cannot even imagine
would be the case.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
28/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
 femininity
 powerless
 unintelligence
 speaks for
14
 torment
 close
 inner thoughts
 letters
 not going to
 volatile
 castigates
When we know some details about the past, it helps us to understand the behaviors of people at that time and to make a text-to-world
connection.
Select the four pieces of information that are most useful when making text-to-world connections and understanding the historical and
social context of Frankenstein, written in 1816.
Mary Shelley was only 18 years old when she wrote Frankenstein.
The frame story of Frankenstein is set in the Arctic aboard the ship of Captain Walton.
Mary Shelley was married to the well-known Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and friends with Lord Byron, another famous poet.
The Industrial Revolution began in the U.K. in the 18th century and continued until around 1840.
The story of Frankenstein has been adapted many times for stage and screen.
1816 was known as the Year Without a Summer as a result of the severe climate abnormalities that followed the eruption of Mount
Tambora.
Frankenstein is the name of the scientist, not the name of the monster.
Mary Shelley was the daughter of Mary Wollstonecraft and William Godwin, well-known radical thinkers.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
29/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
30/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Pride and Prejudice
“Believe me, my dear Miss Elizabeth, that your modesty, so far from doing you any disservice, rather adds to your other perfections. You would have
been less amiable in my eyes had there not been this little unwillingness; but allow me to assure you, that I have your respected mother's permission
for this address. You can hardly doubt the purport of my discourse, however your natural delicacy may lead you to dissemble; my attentions have been
too marked to be mistaken. Almost as soon as I entered the house, I singled you out as the companion of my future life. But before I am run away with
by my feelings on this subject, perhaps it would be advisable for me to state my reasons for marrying—and, moreover, for coming into Hertfordshire
with the design of selecting a wife, as I certainly did.”
The idea of Mr. Collins, with all his solemn composure, being run away with by his feelings, made Elizabeth so near laughing, that she could not use
the short pause he allowed in any attempt to stop him further, and he continued:
“My reasons for marrying are, first, that I think it a right thing for every clergyman in easy circumstances (like myself) to set the example of matrimony in
his parish; secondly, that I am convinced that it will add very greatly to my happiness; and thirdly—which perhaps I ought to have mentioned earlier,
that it is the particular advice and recommendation of the very noble lady whom I have the honour of calling patroness. Twice has she condescended to
give me her opinion (unasked too!) on this subject; and it was but the very Saturday night before I left Hunsford—between our pools at quadrille, while
Mrs. Jenkinson was arranging Miss de Bourgh's footstool, that she said, 'Mr. Collins, you must marry. A clergyman like you must marry. Choose
properly, choose a gentlewoman for my sake; and for your own, let her be an active, useful sort of person, not brought up high, but able to make a
small income go a good way. This is my advice. Find such a woman as soon as you can, bring her to Hunsford, and I will visit her.' Allow me, by the
way, to observe, my fair cousin, that I do not reckon the notice and kindness of Lady Catherine de Bourgh as among the least of the advantages in my
power to offer. You will find her manners beyond anything I can describe; and your wit and vivacity, I think, must be acceptable to her, especially when
tempered with the silence and respect which her rank will inevitably excite. Thus much for my general intention in favour of matrimony; it remains to be
told why my views were directed towards Longbourn instead of my own neighbourhood, where I can assure you there are many amiable young
women. But the fact is, that being, as I am, to inherit this estate after the death of your honoured father (who, however, may live many years longer), I
could not satisfy myself without resolving to choose a wife from among his daughters, that the loss to them might be as little as possible, when the
melancholy event takes place—which, however, as I have already said, may not be for several years. This has been my motive, my fair cousin, and I
flatter myself it will not sink me in your esteem. And now nothing remains for me but to assure you in the most animated language of the violence of my
affection. To fortune I am perfectly indifferent, and shall make no demand of that nature on your father, since I am well aware that it could not be
complied with; and that one thousand pounds in the four per cents, which will not be yours till after your mother's decease, is all that you may ever be
entitled to. On that head, therefore, I shall be uniformly silent; and you may assure yourself that no ungenerous reproach shall ever pass my lips when
we are married.”
It was absolutely necessary to interrupt him now.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
31/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
“You are too hasty, sir,” she cried. “You forget that I have made no answer. Let me do it without further loss of time. Accept my thanks for the
compliment you are paying me. I am very sensible of the honour of your proposals, but it is impossible for me to do otherwise than to decline them.”
“I am not now to learn,” replied Mr. Collins, with a formal wave of the hand, “that it is usual with young ladies to reject the addresses of the man whom
they secretly mean to accept, when he first applies for their favour; and that sometimes the refusal is repeated a second, or even a third time. I am
therefore by no means discouraged by what you have just said, and shall hope to lead you to the altar ere long.”
Written by Jane Austen
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
32/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
15
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
In Chapter 19 of Pride and Prejudice, written by Jane Austen and published in 1813, the clergyman Mr Collins proposes marriage to
Elizabeth Bennet. Read the extract, then select True or False for each of the statements regarding the responses of the characters to the
proposal.
True
False
Mr Collins' proposal is based on logical reasoning.
Mr Collins understands Elizabeth's reluctance to marry him.
Mr Collins is in love with Elizabeth Bennet.
Elizabeth Bennet finds Mr Collins ridiculous.
Elizabeth wants Mr Collins to propose marriage several times before she will accept.
Elizabeth rejects Mr Collins because it is the proper thing for a woman to do.
Mr Collins' marriage proposal is akin to a business transaction.
Mr Collins doesn't even consider that Elizabeth would not want to marry him.
Mr Collins' proposal is romantic.
If Elizabeth were to marry Mr Collins, her family would be provided for.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
33/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
34/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
16
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Drag the correct word or phrase into each box to complete the text, making text-to-world connections between Pride and Prejudice and
England in the early 19th century.
Although Pride and Prejudice wasn't published until 1813, Jane Austen is thought to have begun writing it around 1797. The early 19th
century was a time of great social and political upheaval encompassing the
and the Industrial Revolution. The
slave trade was abolished by Parliament, Great Britain and Ireland combined to form the United Kingdom, and King George III was said to
be suffering from 'madness' leading to the Prince Regent (later to become King George IV) taking over.
Despite the great changes of the time, Georgian society remained governed by strict rules of
, and
in particular were expected to adhere to these rules at all time. Days were spent paying visits to acquaintances,
taking tea, and working on
such as embroidery and piano-playing, which could greatly increase a woman's
likelihood of making a
. Marrying well was to be a woman's ultimate goal in order to secure the social standing of
herself and her family. In Pride and Prejudice, Mrs Bennet is deeply concerned with marrying off her daughters; the
the man the better. Austen herself was unmarried and frequently
in her writing of
the assumptions of the upper-classes.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
35/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
 French Revolution
 fortune
 children
 good match
 admired
 etiquette
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
 men
 more handsome
 women
 employment
 Theory of Evolution
 accomplishments
 wealthier
 critical
36/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
SCENE II. The Forum.
BRUTUS
[...]
Romans, countrymen, and lovers! hear me for my
cause, and be silent, that you may hear: believe me
for mine honour, and have respect to mine honour, that
you may believe: censure me in your wisdom, and
awake your senses, that you may the better judge.
If there be any in this assembly, any dear friend of
Caesar's, to him I say, that Brutus' love to Caesar
was no less than his. If then that friend demand
why Brutus rose against Caesar, this is my answer:
--Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved
Rome more. Had you rather Caesar were living and
die all slaves, than that Caesar were dead, to live
all free men? As Caesar loved me, I weep for him;
as he was fortunate, I rejoice at it; as he was
valiant, I honour him: but, as he was ambitious, I
slew him. There is tears for his love; joy for his
fortune; honour for his valour; and death for his
ambition. Who is here so base that would be a
bondman? If any, speak; for him have I offended.
Who is here so rude that would not be a Roman? If
any, speak; for him have I offended. Who is here so
vile that will not love his country? If any, speak;
for him have I offended. I pause for a reply.
[…]
Enter ANTONY and others, with CAESAR's body
[…]
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
37/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
ANTONY
Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears;
I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him.
The evil that men do lives after them;
The good is oft interred with their bones;
So let it be with Caesar. The noble Brutus
Hath told you Caesar was ambitious:
If it were so, it was a grievous fault,
And grievously hath Caesar answer'd it.
Here, under leave of Brutus and the rest-For Brutus is an honourable man;
So are they all, all honourable men-Come I to speak in Caesar's funeral.
He was my friend, faithful and just to me:
But Brutus says he was ambitious;
And Brutus is an honourable man.
He hath brought many captives home to Rome
Whose ransoms did the general coffers fill:
Did this in Caesar seem ambitious?
When that the poor have cried, Caesar hath wept:
Ambition should be made of sterner stuff:
Yet Brutus says he was ambitious;
And Brutus is an honourable man.
You all did see that on the Lupercal
I thrice presented him a kingly crown,
Which he did thrice refuse: was this ambition?
Yet Brutus says he was ambitious;
And, sure, he is an honourable man.
I speak not to disprove what Brutus spoke,
But here I am to speak what I do know.
You all did love him once, not without cause:
What cause withholds you then, to mourn for him?
O judgment! thou art fled to brutish beasts,
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
38/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
And men have lost their reason. Bear with me;
My heart is in the coffin there with Caesar,
And I must pause till it come back to me.
FIRST CITIZEN
Methinks there is much reason in his sayings.
[...]
FOURTH CITIZEN
Mark'd ye his words? He would not take the crown;
Therefore 'tis certain he was not ambitious.
[...]
ANTONY
But yesterday the word of Caesar might
Have stood against the world; now lies he there.
And none so poor to do him reverence.
O masters, if I were disposed to stir
Your hearts and minds to mutiny and rage,
I should do Brutus wrong, and Cassius wrong,
Who, you all know, are honourable men:
I will not do them wrong; I rather choose
To wrong the dead, to wrong myself and you,
Than I will wrong such honourable men.
But here's a parchment with the seal of Caesar;
I found it in his closet, 'tis his will:
Let but the commons hear this testament-Which, pardon me, I do not mean to read-And they would go and kiss dead Caesar's wounds
And dip their napkins in his sacred blood,
Yea, beg a hair of him for memory,
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
39/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
And, dying, mention it within their wills,
Bequeathing it as a rich legacy
Unto their issue.
FOURTH CITIZEN
We'll hear the will: read it, Mark Antony.
ALL
The will, the will! we will hear Caesar's will.
Written by William Shakespeare
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
40/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
17
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Act III, Scene II of the play Julius Caesar, written in 1599 by William Shakespeare, takes place after the Emperor Caesar has been
stabbed to death by a band of conspirators that includes his supposed loyal friend Brutus.
How characters respond to an event can tell us a lot about their relationship, especially the balance of power. Both Brutus and Mark
Antony (another close friend of Caesar) speak to the assembled crowd of citizens following the assassination of Caesar.
Read the extracts, then select Brutus or Antony for each of the statements.
Brutus
Antony
Believes that Caesar was heading towards absolute power
Brings Caesar's body for burial and weeps over it
Speaks naively, convinced he has done the right thing
Manipulates the crowd into changing its mind
Tempt the crowd with talk of a will
Believes Caesar had to die for the greater good
Refutes claims that Caesar was ambitious
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
41/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
18
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Select the statement that best describes the balance of power following the speeches given by Brutus and Antony.
Both Brutus and Antony are fiercely loyal to Caesar and to Rome, and are determined to work together in equal partnership to
continue his legacy, ruling Rome fairly and justly, and ensuring civil war is avoided at all costs.
Despite Brutus's stirring speech, the crowd are steadfast in their hatred of him and his co-conspirators. Antony tries desperately to
get the citizens to show restraint and understand Brutus's reasons for killing Caesar, but to no avail.
Brutus holds all the power during the funeral speeches. He gives permission for Antony to speak, but is too important to wait for
Caesar's body to arrive. Antony is subservient to Brutus, fearful for his own position and safety, and refuses to speak negatively of
him.
Initially, the crowd support Brutus, convinced of his argument that Caesar had die for the greater good of Rome; however, moments
later, swayed by the powerful rhetoric of Antony (and the mention of a will), the balance of power has flipped.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
42/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Extract from My Father's Suitcase
As for my place in the world – in life, as in literature, my basic feeling was that I was ‘not in the centre’. In the centre of the world, there was a life richer
and more exciting than our own, and with all of Istanbul, all of Turkey, I was outside it. Today I think that I share this feeling with most people in the
world. In the same way, there was a world literature, and its centre, too, was very far away from me. Actually what I had in mind was Western, not
world, literature, and we Turks were outside it. My father’s library was evidence of this. At one end, there were Istanbul’s books – our literature, our
local world, in all its beloved detail – and at the other end were the books from this other, Western, world, to which our own bore no resemblance, to
which our lack of resemblance gave us both pain and hope. To write, to read, was like leaving one world to find consolation in the other world’s
otherness, the strange and the wondrous. I felt that my father had read novels to escape his life and flee to the West – just as I would do later. Or it
seemed to me that books in those days were things we picked up to escape our own culture, which we found so lacking. It wasn’t just by reading that
we left our Istanbul lives to travel West – it was by writing, too. To fill those notebooks of his, my father had gone to Paris, shut himself up in his room,
and then brought his writings back to Turkey. As I gazed at my father’s suitcase, it seemed to me that this was what was causing me disquiet. After
working in a room for 25 years to survive as a writer in Turkey, it galled me to see my father hide his deep thoughts inside this suitcase, to act as if
writing was work that had to be done in secret, far from the eyes of society, the state, the people. Perhaps this was the main reason why I felt angry at
my father for not taking literature as seriously as I did.
[…]
But as can be seen from my father’s suitcase and the pale colours of our lives in Istanbul, the world did have a centre, and it was far away from us. In
my books I have described in some detail how this basic fact evoked a Checkovian sense of provinciality, and how, by another route, it led to my
questioning my authenticity. I know from experience that the great majority of people on this earth live with these same feelings, and that many suffer
from an even deeper sense of insufficiency, lack of security and sense of degradation, than I do. Yes, the greatest dilemmas facing humanity are still
landlessness, homelessness, and hunger … But today our televisions and newspapers tell us about these fundamental problems more quickly and
more simply than literature can ever do. What literature needs most to tell and investigate today are humanity’s basic fears: the fear of being left
outside, and the fear of counting for nothing, and the feelings of worthlessness that come with such fears; the collective humiliations, vulnerabilities,
slights, grievances, sensitivities, and imagined insults, and the nationalist boasts and inflations that are their next of kind … Whenever I am confronted
by such sentiments, and by the irrational, overstated language in which they are usually expressed, I know they touch on a darkness inside me. We
have often witnessed peoples, societies and nations outside the Western world – and I can identify with them easily – succumbing to fears that
sometimes lead them to commit stupidities, all because of their fears of humiliation and their sensitivities. I also know that in the West – a world with
which I can identify with the same ease – nations and peoples taking an excessive pride in their wealth, and in their having brought us the
Renaissance, the Enlightenment, and Modernism, have, from time to time, succumbed to a self-satisfaction that is almost as stupid.
Delivered by Orhan Pamuk at the Swedish Academy, December 2006.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
43/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
© The Nobel Foundation 2006
19
Read the extract from the Nobel Lecture My Father's Suitcase, which was delivered in Turkish by novelist Orhan Pamuk to the Swedish
Academy in 2006.
Select True or False for each statement.
True
False
Orhan Pamuk's speech is biased towards Turkey and Istanbul in particular.
Orhan Pamuk's speech is biased against modern media.
Orhan Pamuk's speech is biased against Western literature.
Orhan Pamuk's speech is biased against his father.
Orhan Pamuk's speech is biased against nationalism.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
44/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
20
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills
Drag each quote from My Father's Suitcase by Orhan Pamuk into the correct category, depending on which language technique is
employed.
Generalization
Emotive Language
 To write, to read, was like leaving one world to find consolation in the other world’s otherness, the strange and the wondrous.

We have often witnessed peoples, societies and nations outside the Western world [...] succumbing to fears that sometimes lead them to
commit stupidities, all because of their fears of humiliation and their sensitivities.
 Today I think that I share this feeling with most people in the world.

I know from experience that the great majority of people on this earth live with these same feelings, and that many suffer from an even
deeper sense of insufficiency, lack of security and sense of degradation, than I do.
 Actually what I had in mind was Western, not world, literature, and we Turks were outside it.
 Perhaps this was the main reason why I felt angry at my father for not taking literature as seriously as I did.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
45/46
1/2/25, 9:17 AM
PR1ME Reading Comprehension Skills

What literature needs most to tell and investigate today are humanity’s basic fears: the fear of being left outside, and the fear of counting
for nothing, and the feelings of worthlessness that come with such fears;

Whenever I am confronted by such sentiments, and by the irrational, overstated language in which they are usually expressed, I know
they touch on a darkness inside me.
https://assessment02.scholasticlearningzone.com/educator.html#!/printAssessment/483
46/46