Life Without Gravity
1. What are two main ideas about weightlessness in the text?
C It is uncomfortable for the body and upsets the stomach.
6. How might astronauts in space prepare for the return to Earth?
C. by doing exercises to strengthen bones and muscles
9. Which statement explains why saguaro ribs and creosote branches are important for creating saguaro syrup?
B. Kukuipads are created with saguaro ribs and creosote branches.
17. Which two details from the text support the main ideas?
D. A terrarium is a tiny ecosystem inside a container, and Dr. Ward accidentally discovered the terrarium.
22. For what reason does the author include information on the origin of the terrarium in the text?
A. to help the reader understand its history
2. Why does the author use the word NOT in paragraph 2?
B. The author is showing that some information is untrue.
7. What is meant by the phrase “nooks and crannies” in paragraph 12?
B. small places
10. Based on paragraphs 4 and 5, why are creosote branches used at the top of a kukuipad?
D. Creosote branches are sturdy and durable, making it easy to prod fruit from the top of a saguaro cactus.
18. Which describes a good terrarium?
B. a large, clear container
23. What is the meaning of the word exotic in paragraph 8?
B. unusual
3. Which statement summarizes the author’s view on weightlessness?
B. “ ‘Living in space is like having a different life, living in a different world.’ ”
8. Which statement summarizes the text?
A. After adjusting, the astronauts enjoy some of the benefits of weightlessness.
11. Which detail reveals how the Tohono O’odham feel about the land?
C. Gina tells the harvesters to leave the first fruit at the base of the saguaro.
19. What is the meaning of transparent in paragraph 5?
C. clear
24. How did terrariums help plant collectors?
D. Terrariums allowed plant collectors to safely travel with plants.
4 What is the meaning of the word rerouted in paragraph 5?
C. changing the direction
13. Which step comes after placing the peel at the base of the saguaro?
C. Scoop the fruit into buckets and avoid the spines that cling to the peel.
20. How did Dr. Ward’s study of the sphinx moth affect his decision to write a book?
A. His studies of the sphinx moth caused his accidental discovery of the terrarium.
5. How does the lack of gravity in space affect the bones?
D. The bones become thin and spongy.
16. How are the harvesting of saguaro fruit and the creation of saguaro syrup similar?
D. Both require patience and persistence to reach the desired result.
21. What happened to Dr. Ward’s experimental terrarium?
C. It lasted for years.