Reading Comprehension: The Importance of Trees

 

---

Reading Comprehension: The Importance of Trees

Trees are essential to life on Earth. They provide us with oxygen, which is vital for survival. Through the process of photosynthesis, trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, playing a critical role in maintaining the planet’s ecological balance. In addition to cleaning the air, trees also filter water, prevent soil erosion, and provide shelter to countless species of animals, birds, and insects.

Trees are also important for humans in many practical ways. They give us fruits, medicines, wood, and countless other resources. Forests, which are large groups of trees, act as natural air conditioners, reducing temperatures and providing shade. Trees planted in urban areas can make cities more livable by reducing noise and air pollution.

Beyond their environmental benefits, trees hold cultural and emotional significance. People often plant trees to commemorate special events or as a symbol of hope. In many cultures, trees are considered sacred and are worshipped.

However, deforestation is a major concern today. Cutting down trees for farming, construction, or other purposes has led to climate change, loss of biodiversity, and desertification. It is crucial to plant more trees and protect the ones we have. By doing so, we can ensure a greener and healthier future for generations to come.

---

Questions:

A. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):

1. What process allows trees to release oxygen into the atmosphere?
   a) Evaporation
   b) Photosynthesis
   c) Transpiration
   d) Respiration

2. Which of the following is NOT a benefit provided by trees?
   a) Preventing soil erosion
   b) Producing plastic
   c) Filtering water
   d) Providing shade

3. What is a major consequence of deforestation?
   a) Increase in rainfall
   b) Loss of biodiversity
   c) Decrease in temperature
   d) Increase in oxygen levels

4. Why are trees planted in cities?
   a) To increase noise levels
   b) To make cities warmer
   c) To reduce noise and air pollution
   d) To block sunlight

---

B. Answer the following questions in 30–40 words each:

1. How do trees contribute to maintaining ecological balance?
2. Mention two practical uses of trees for humans.
3. Why is deforestation considered harmful to the environment?
4. How are trees significant culturally and emotionally?

---

C. Vocabulary Practice:

1. Find a word from the passage that means "natural home for animals".
2. Which word in the passage means "removal of forests"?
3. Write the synonym of "essential" from the passage.

---