Plastic Pollution and Marine Animals, RI1, 2, & 4

According to the text, why is plastic pollution particularly harmful to marine animals?

• Plastic rises to the surface, damaging underwater habitats.

• Plastics emit harmful chemicals into the water when heated.

• Marine animals can mistake plastic for food, leading to health issues.

• Marine animals avoid areas with plastic debris.

What is the primary purpose of the first paragraph in the text?

• To discuss methods of recycling plastic.

• To introduce the problem of plastic pollution.

• To describe how marine life is adapting to plastic.

• To explain the positive uses of plastic in daily life.

What is the meaning of the word microplastics as used in the text?

• Large plastic pieces floating on the surface of the water.

• Substances used to clean plastics in the ocean.

• New types of plastic developed to be eco-friendly.

• Very small plastic particles that result from the breakdown of larger plastics.

Which two details from the text support the idea that plastic pollution is harmful to marine life?

• Plastic bags are commonly used on land for carrying groceries.

• Sea turtles often mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, leading to blockages in their digestive systems.

• Governments are creating policies to limit the production of plastics.

• Birds, fish, and whales have been found with stomachs full of plastic, causing death.

• Plastic waste is carried to the oceans by rivers and wind.

What is the central idea of the text?

• Plastic pollution is not a major concern for marine ecosystems.

• There are no real solutions to the plastic pollution problem.

• Plastic pollution is a natural part of marine ecosystems that animals must adapt to.

• Plastic pollution negatively impacts marine life and ecosystems, and action is needed to address it.

Which key event is missing from the summary provided below? Summary: Plastic pollution in the oceans is a growing problem, harming marine life. Many animals mistake plastic for food, which leads to health issues and even death. Efforts are being made globally to reduce plastic waste through recycling and raising awareness.

• The breakdown of plastics into microplastics, which are consumed by marine animals.

• There are numerous benefits of plastic for marine ecosystems.

• The efforts of individuals to clean the oceans are going unnoticed by all humans.

• The fact that marine animals avoid areas with high plastic pollution.

What does the phrase "water was harnessed" most likely mean in the context of the text?

• Water was collected and stored in large containers for drinking.

• Water was purified and used to support industrial production.

• Water was prevented from flowing into rivers and streams to control flooding.

• Water's energy was captured and used for practical purposes, such as powering machines.

What is the primary challenge mentioned in the text regarding renewable energy sources?

• Renewable energy is not sustainable in the long term.

• The cost of building renewable energy infrastructure is high.

• There is no public interest in renewable energy.

• Fossil fuels are easier to use than renewable energy.

What is the meaning of the word replenished as used in the text?

• Used up and never replaced.

• Decreased over time.

• Constantly renewed or restored.

• Created artificially.

After reading the text, which of the following best summarizes the central idea of the text?

• Renewable energy is not yet widely used.

• Renewable energy is essential for reducing environmental harm and promoting sustainability.

• Renewable energy is costly and inefficient.

• Fossil fuels will continue to be the primary energy source in the future.