Selection: E-2

E-2

Grade level: 5

Word count: 1433 words

Author: Nancy McConnell

Synopsis: The Hubble telescope is our doorway to the wonders of the universe.

Excerpt: The Hubble also has taken pictures that may show how a new planet is born. These pictures show that dust, in the shape of a disk, forms around stars. Scientists believe these disks may become planets. Because of the Hubble's data, scientists think that new planets may form in many parts of the universe. Hubble also has sent us images of new stars being born.

Question: Based on what you read in this selection, which is correct?

1. Hubble has confirmed that the universe is always growing and changing.
2. Hubble has shown us water exists on many other planets in the universe.
3. Hubble has warned us that the universe will soon be too crowded.
4. Hubble has proven that Earth is the only planet in the universe.

Selection: E-43

E-43

Grade level: 5

Word count: 1419 words

Author: Erica Cirino

Synopsis: Swamps, mangroves, and alligators are all part of the Florida Everglades. In some ways this wetland environment has changed over time, but in other ways it has not.

Excerpt: One kind of tree you would see in Ten Thousand Islands is the mangrove. The mangrove tree has long roots that look like skinny legs. The roots stick up high above the land. If the land is covered with water, a little section of the root can stick out of the water.

These long roots help the tree to live in a place where there is a blend of ocean water and fresh water. The roots take in ocean water and fresh water from the swamp. Then, they get rid of much of the salt in the ocean water. The roots get rid of the salt so it does not hurt other sections of the tree.

Mangrove trees grow near one another and the roots from different mangrove trees twist together. The roots twist together so much that they form a thick wall. The wall of twisted roots is so thick that you would have a hard time walking through a mangrove forest.

Question: Three of these statements about mangrove trees are correct. Which one is NOT correct?

1. Mangrove tree roots never touch one another.
2. Mangrove trees have roots that are long and thin.
3. Mangrove tree roots stick up above the land.
4. Mangrove tree roots take in fresh and ocean water.