NAPLAN Reading Comprehension

Question 1

A NAPLAN reading passage describes a wombat as a 'burrowing marsupial that is mostly active at night'. What does the word 'nocturnal' most likely mean in this context?

Accepted Answer

Active at night

Answer

The passage states the wombat is 'mostly active at night', which is the definition of nocturnal. Using surrounding text to work out a word's meaning is a key NAPLAN reading skill.

Question 2

In a persuasive text, the author writes: 'Surely every sensible person agrees that recycling is essential.' Why has the author used the word 'surely'?

Accepted Answer

To persuade the reader to agree

Answer

'Surely' is an emotive, persuasive word that pressures the reader into agreeing. Recognising persuasive language is tested in NAPLAN reading.

Question 3

A narrative begins: 'The old jetty groaned in the wind as Mia stepped onto the cracked timber.' What mood does this opening create?

Accepted Answer

Tense and uneasy

Answer

Words like 'groaned', 'cracked' and 'old' build a tense, uneasy atmosphere. Identifying mood from word choice is a common NAPLAN reading question.

Question 4

Which sentence is the MAIN IDEA of a paragraph about the Great Barrier Reef being damaged by warmer oceans?

Accepted Answer

Rising sea temperatures are harming the reef's coral

Answer

The main idea sums up what the whole paragraph is about. The detail about warmer oceans damaging coral is the central point; the others are supporting facts.

Question 5

A report states: 'The platypus is one of only two mammals that lay eggs.' This information is best described as a:

Accepted Answer

Fact

Answer

A fact can be checked and proven true. Distinguishing fact from opinion is an important NAPLAN reading skill.

NAPLAN Practice Test

NAPLAN Practice Test

NAPLAN Reading Comprehension