Reading Assessment

As used in paragraph 1, the word attraction most nearly means

• sense

• park

• ride

• vision

2) It can be understood that Coney Island, Navy Pier, and the Santa Monica Pier are all examples of

• amusement park

• Ferris Wheels

• vacation spots

• boat docks

3) As used in paragraph 2, which is the best antonym for complex?

• impressive

• beautiful

• exciting

• simple

4) What does the author like best about Ferris wheels?

• the impressive engineering and beauty of them

• the excitement and thrills they guarantee

• the beautiful sights and relaxation they allow

• the fact that most amusement parks have one

5) According to the passage, the Ferris wheel was originally designed for

• Coney Island

• the world's fair

• Disneyworld

• Singapore

6) This passage was most likely written to

• describe the author’s favorite amusement park rides

• explain the original design of Ferris wheels and how they work today

• describe the history of Ferris wheels and why they are so popular

• explain the history of Ferris wheels and why the author likes them

7) Using information in the passage, the reader can understand that the tallest Ferris wheel in the world is

• under 250 feet tall

• between 250 and 500 feet tall

• between 500 and 750 feet tall

• over 750 feet tall

8) In paragraph 2, the narrator says, "As simple as the ride seems, only advanced engineers can make safe and fun Ferris wheels." Can you think of any other machines that seem simple but actually are not? List at least two and explain why they are not actually simple.

9) In paragraph 3, the narrator says, " While the Ferris wheel is not as thrilling as a rollercoaster, it is still very exciting ." Can you think of any other machines that are not "thrilling" but still "exciting"?

10) In the final section of the passage, we learn how Ferris wheels "keep reaching higher and higher." This seems to be a common trend among the developers of modern technology. What makes us want to continually strive to create something bigger and better? Is this good? Discuss.