QUESTIONS AND CORRECT ANSWERS WITH RATIONALES EACH 2026
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ENGLISH EXAM
Paragraph:
Coral reefs are among the most diverse ecosystems in the world, often referred to as the “rainforests of
the sea.” They provide shelter and food for thousands of marine species and protect coastlines from
erosion by absorbing wave energy. Coral polyps, the tiny organisms that build the reef, have a symbiotic
relationship with algae, which provide them with energy through photosynthesis. However, rising ocean
temperatures and pollution have led to widespread coral bleaching, threatening the survival of these
vital habitats.
Questions (1–10)
1. What is the main idea of the passage?
A. Coral reefs are experiencing coral bleaching.
B. Coral reefs are important ecosystems that support marine life and protect coastlines.
C. Coral polyps live in symbiosis with algae.
D. Pollution affects coral reefs.
Rationale: The passage’s main focus is the ecological importance of coral reefs and the threats they
face.
2. According to the passage, coral reefs protect coastlines by:
A. Reducing pollution
B. Absorbing wave energy
C. Producing oxygen
D. Providing food
Rationale: The passage explicitly says reefs absorb wave energy to prevent erosion.
3. Which phrase best defines “symbiotic relationship” as used in the passage?
A. One organism lives inside another
B. A mutually beneficial relationship between two species
C. Competition for resources
D. An organism feeding on another
Rationale: Coral polyps and algae benefit from each other, which is the definition of symbiosis.
, 4. What is the meaning of “bleaching” in the passage?
A. Turning white due to stress
B. Cleaning coral surfaces
C. Producing energy
D. Coral reproduction
Rationale: Coral bleaching occurs when stressed corals expel their algae, losing color.
5. Which detail from the passage supports the idea that coral reefs are diverse ecosystems?
A. “They provide shelter and food for thousands of marine species.”
B. “Rising ocean temperatures have led to widespread coral bleaching.”
C. “Coral polyps have a symbiotic relationship with algae.”
D. “They protect coastlines from erosion.”
Rationale: Providing shelter and food for many species demonstrates ecological diversity.
6. What is the author’s purpose in this passage?
A. To entertain readers
B. To inform readers about coral reefs
C. To persuade readers to visit coral reefs
D. To criticize human activity
Rationale: The passage presents factual information about coral reefs and their threats.
7. Based on the passage, what is a likely consequence if coral bleaching continues?
A. Coral reefs may expand rapidly
B. Marine biodiversity may decline
C. Algae will die but coral will remain healthy
D. Coastlines will experience less erosion
Rationale: Bleaching threatens coral survival, which supports marine species and protects coasts.
8. The tone of the passage can best be described as:
A. Alarmist
B. Informative
C. Humorous
D. Critical
Rationale: The passage explains facts and ecological processes clearly without exaggeration or humor.