Here are some Academic Reading tasks that I created so that you can use to practice. The answer key is at the bottom.
Olive Oil and the Gut
Extra virgin olive oil has long been a central part of the Mediterranean diet and is well known for supporting heart and metabolic health. Recent research suggests its benefits may also extend to the brain. Scientists believe this effect may occur through its influence on the gut microbiome, which plays an important role in overall health and cognitive function.
A study conducted by researchers at the Universitat Rovira Virgili in Catalonia, along with associated research institutes, examined the relationship between olive oil consumption, gut bacteria, and brain performance. The study followed 656 adults between the ages of 55 and 75 who were overweight or had metabolic syndrome, a condition linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Over two years, participants’ diets were carefully monitored, including their intake of virgin and refined olive oils. Researchers also analyzed changes in gut microbiota and cognitive ability.
The results showed that individuals who regularly consumed extra virgin olive oil demonstrated improved cognitive performance and greater diversity in their gut bacteria, which is generally associated with better health. In contrast, those who mainly consumed refined olive oil showed a decline in microbial diversity. Lower microdiversity in the gut—often termed low-diversity dysbiosis—results in a fragile, less resilient ecosystem, leading to chronic inflammation, poor nutrient absorption, and increased susceptibility to diseases. Researchers also identified a type of beneficial bacteria, known as Adlercreutzia, that may help explain these effects. Overall, the findings suggest that extra virgin olive oil may support brain health by positively influencing the gut microbiome.
What is the passage mainly about?
A. A study that proves olive oil can prevent disease
B. The relationship between olive oil and cognitive function
C. The beneficial bacteria in olive oil
D. A metabolic syndrome that has been linked to Mediterranean diets
The word “extend” in the second sentence is closest in meaning to
A. track
B. replicate
C. reach
D. compel
What can be inferred about the consumption of refined olive oil?
A.It can lead to cardiovascular disease
B.It can may explain the increase of Adlercreutzia in the gut
C.It improves digestion of key nutrients
D.It might lead to lower cognitive performance
Why does the author mention Adlercreutzia?
A. To indicate a benefit of consuming extra virgin olive oil
B. To warn about the link between Adlercreutzia and lowered cognitive function
C. To mention a type of bacteria that helps the body break down nutrients
D. To provide an example of a beneficial type of gut bacteria
Which of the following is NOT a benefit of consuming extra virgin olive oil?
A. An increase in dysbiosis
B. A greater ability to perform on cognitive tasks
C. An increase in the diversity of gut bacteria
D. A general increase in well-being
Animals: Do They Know Our Names?
For many years, both researchers and the general public have been curious about whether animals are capable of using names to identify themselves or others. While some species can recognize names given by humans, and others develop unique vocal signals, clear evidence of animals actively using names in a way similar to human language has been limited.
Parrots, however, stand out for their ability to imitate sounds and even use words meaningfully. According to researchers, their skill in vocal learning makes them ideal subjects for studying whether animals can do more than simply respond to language—whether they can actually apply labels.
In a recent investigation, scientists analyzed information from over 800 captive parrots involved in the Many Parrots research project. This initiative gathers survey responses and audio recordings to better understand parrot communication. In many cases, participants shared examples of parrots using names, and some recordings suggested that birds were labeling specific individuals rather than just repeating sounds.
At the same time, parrots did not always use names in strictly human-like ways. For example, some birds repeated their own names to get attention, greet people, or manage social interaction, rather than simple mimicry. Despite these differences, the findings indicate that parrots possess both the cognitive ability and vocal flexibility to use names in varied contexts, including referring to individuals who are not present. Although questions remain about how widespread this ability is, the study suggests that animals may be more capable of meaningful communication than previously believed.
What is the passage mainly about?
A. The settled science about parrots and their ability to repeat names
B. The questions that remain about parrots and name-calling
C. Why parrots are better able to recall names than other animals
D. A recent effort to determine whether animals can use language meaningfully
According to the passage, why did researchers use parrots in the study?
A. They are more intelligent than other animals
B. They are easier to train than other animals
C. They make stronger associations with objects and words than other animals
D. They are more likely to use words with intention and purpose than other animals
The word “flexibility” in the last paragraph is closest in meaning to:
A. adaptability
B. mobility
C. futility
D. utility
According to the passage, all of the following are true about parrots EXCEPT:
A. They are social birds
B. They speak about people who are not present
C. They are the most intelligent species of bird
D. They engage in attention-seeking behavior
What does the author imply about the conclusion of the study?
A. More research needs to be done before it is generalized to other species of animals
B. It has shown that parrots are more intelligent than other bird species
C. It needs to be repeated on a wider variety of bird species
D. It did not use enough individual birds to reach a final conclusion
Fire in Early Human Societies
Early humans used fire in several important ways. One major use was cooking, which made food like meat and fish easier to eat and safer by killing harmful bacteria. Fire also provided warmth, helping people survive in cooler conditions, and offered protection by keeping predators away. In addition, it created light, allowing activities to continue after dark, and may have been used to strengthen wooden tools. Gathering around fires likely encouraged social interaction, cooperation, and the sharing of knowledge. But how do we know how early humans used fire?
Charcoal is rarely preserved at very early prehistoric sites, which makes the discoveries at Gesher Benot Ya’aqov especially valuable for understanding how early humans used fire. At many ancient locations, traces of burning are sparse or difficult to interpret, but this Acheulian site provides unusually clear evidence of repeated fire use over a very long period. Located along the edge of an ancient lake, it contains more than 20 layers of occupation, showing that generations of hunter-gatherers repeatedly returned to the same place.
The site reveals a lively environment where people made tools from flint, limestone, and basalt, processed animals, and gathered a wide range of plant foods such as fruits and nuts. In one notable layer, researchers found remains of a straight-tusked elephant alongside tools and plant material, suggesting large-scale hunting and butchering took place on-site. Fire played a central role in these activities and in daily life more broadly.
Scientists analyzed 266 charcoal fragments from a layer dated to around 780,000 years ago. Using microscopic methods, they identified a diverse mix of tree species, indicating that people likely collected wood from what was readily available, especially driftwood along the lakeshore. The overlap between charcoal and fish remains suggests that fire was also used for cooking. This insight points to a broader conclusion: access to firewood may have been a decisive factor in where these early humans chose to live. Altogether, the findings show that early humans effectively used their environment, relied on accessible resources, and organized their lives around controlled fire.
What is the reading mainly about?
A. Newly discovered evidence that shows how humans used fire
B. The importance of fire in cooking for early humans
C. How fire was used to increase the well-being of early humans
D. An ancient site that contains a lot of archaeological evidence
According to the passage, fire was used by early humans for all of the following EXCEPT:
A. Keeping predators at bay
B. Encouraging social cohesion
C. Increasing communication among people
D. Preserving food for later consumption
Why does the author mention a straight-tusked elephant?
A. To illustrate the dietary preferences of early humans
B. To provide evidence that fire helped ancient humans hunt large animals
C. To make a point by using an animal that is likely familiar to readers
D. To argue that fire made it easier for early humans to make use of available resources
The word “remains” in the last paragraph is closest in meaning to:
A. remnants
B. tokens
C. reminders
D. renderings
What does the author imply about firewood?
A. It was a more important resource than access to fishing sites
B. It was available near most bodies of water
C. Its availability caused a greater social hierarchy within organized groups of early humans
D. It was crucial to determining where early humans would settle
Answer Key
OLIVE OIL: B, C, D, A, A,
ANIMALS: D, D, A, C, A
FIRE: A, D, C, A, D
Olive Oil and the Gut
Extra virgin olive oil has long been a central part of the Mediterranean diet and is well known for supporting heart and metabolic health. Recent research suggests its benefits may also extend to the brain. Scientists believe this effect may occur through its influence on the gut microbiome, which plays an important role in overall health and cognitive function.
A study conducted by researchers at the Universitat Rovira Virgili in Catalonia, along with associated research institutes, examined the relationship between olive oil consumption, gut bacteria, and brain performance. The study followed 656 adults between the ages of 55 and 75 who were overweight or had metabolic syndrome, a condition linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Over two years, participants’ diets were carefully monitored, including their intake of virgin and refined olive oils. Researchers also analyzed changes in gut microbiota and cognitive ability.
The results showed that individuals who regularly consumed extra virgin olive oil demonstrated improved cognitive performance and greater diversity in their gut bacteria, which is generally associated with better health. In contrast, those who mainly consumed refined olive oil showed a decline in microbial diversity. Lower microdiversity in the gut—often termed low-diversity dysbiosis—results in a fragile, less resilient ecosystem, leading to chronic inflammation, poor nutrient absorption, and increased susceptibility to diseases. Researchers also identified a type of beneficial bacteria, known as Adlercreutzia, that may help explain these effects. Overall, the findings suggest that extra virgin olive oil may support brain health by positively influencing the gut microbiome.
What is the passage mainly about?
A. A study that proves olive oil can prevent disease
B. The relationship between olive oil and cognitive function
C. The beneficial bacteria in olive oil
D. A metabolic syndrome that has been linked to Mediterranean diets
The word “extend” in the second sentence is closest in meaning to
A. track
B. replicate
C. reach
D. compel
What can be inferred about the consumption of refined olive oil?
A.It can lead to cardiovascular disease
B.It can may explain the increase of Adlercreutzia in the gut
C.It improves digestion of key nutrients
D.It might lead to lower cognitive performance
Why does the author mention Adlercreutzia?
A. To indicate a benefit of consuming extra virgin olive oil
B. To warn about the link between Adlercreutzia and lowered cognitive function
C. To mention a type of bacteria that helps the body break down nutrients
D. To provide an example of a beneficial type of gut bacteria
Which of the following is NOT a benefit of consuming extra virgin olive oil?
A. An increase in dysbiosis
B. A greater ability to perform on cognitive tasks
C. An increase in the diversity of gut bacteria
D. A general increase in well-being
Animals: Do They Know Our Names?
For many years, both researchers and the general public have been curious about whether animals are capable of using names to identify themselves or others. While some species can recognize names given by humans, and others develop unique vocal signals, clear evidence of animals actively using names in a way similar to human language has been limited.
Parrots, however, stand out for their ability to imitate sounds and even use words meaningfully. According to researchers, their skill in vocal learning makes them ideal subjects for studying whether animals can do more than simply respond to language—whether they can actually apply labels.
In a recent investigation, scientists analyzed information from over 800 captive parrots involved in the Many Parrots research project. This initiative gathers survey responses and audio recordings to better understand parrot communication. In many cases, participants shared examples of parrots using names, and some recordings suggested that birds were labeling specific individuals rather than just repeating sounds.
At the same time, parrots did not always use names in strictly human-like ways. For example, some birds repeated their own names to get attention, greet people, or manage social interaction, rather than simple mimicry. Despite these differences, the findings indicate that parrots possess both the cognitive ability and vocal flexibility to use names in varied contexts, including referring to individuals who are not present. Although questions remain about how widespread this ability is, the study suggests that animals may be more capable of meaningful communication than previously believed.
What is the passage mainly about?
A. The settled science about parrots and their ability to repeat names
B. The questions that remain about parrots and name-calling
C. Why parrots are better able to recall names than other animals
D. A recent effort to determine whether animals can use language meaningfully
According to the passage, why did researchers use parrots in the study?
A. They are more intelligent than other animals
B. They are easier to train than other animals
C. They make stronger associations with objects and words than other animals
D. They are more likely to use words with intention and purpose than other animals
The word “flexibility” in the last paragraph is closest in meaning to:
A. adaptability
B. mobility
C. futility
D. utility
According to the passage, all of the following are true about parrots EXCEPT:
A. They are social birds
B. They speak about people who are not present
C. They are the most intelligent species of bird
D. They engage in attention-seeking behavior
What does the author imply about the conclusion of the study?
A. More research needs to be done before it is generalized to other species of animals
B. It has shown that parrots are more intelligent than other bird species
C. It needs to be repeated on a wider variety of bird species
D. It did not use enough individual birds to reach a final conclusion
Fire in Early Human Societies
Early humans used fire in several important ways. One major use was cooking, which made food like meat and fish easier to eat and safer by killing harmful bacteria. Fire also provided warmth, helping people survive in cooler conditions, and offered protection by keeping predators away. In addition, it created light, allowing activities to continue after dark, and may have been used to strengthen wooden tools. Gathering around fires likely encouraged social interaction, cooperation, and the sharing of knowledge. But how do we know how early humans used fire?
Charcoal is rarely preserved at very early prehistoric sites, which makes the discoveries at Gesher Benot Ya’aqov especially valuable for understanding how early humans used fire. At many ancient locations, traces of burning are sparse or difficult to interpret, but this Acheulian site provides unusually clear evidence of repeated fire use over a very long period. Located along the edge of an ancient lake, it contains more than 20 layers of occupation, showing that generations of hunter-gatherers repeatedly returned to the same place.
The site reveals a lively environment where people made tools from flint, limestone, and basalt, processed animals, and gathered a wide range of plant foods such as fruits and nuts. In one notable layer, researchers found remains of a straight-tusked elephant alongside tools and plant material, suggesting large-scale hunting and butchering took place on-site. Fire played a central role in these activities and in daily life more broadly.
Scientists analyzed 266 charcoal fragments from a layer dated to around 780,000 years ago. Using microscopic methods, they identified a diverse mix of tree species, indicating that people likely collected wood from what was readily available, especially driftwood along the lakeshore. The overlap between charcoal and fish remains suggests that fire was also used for cooking. This insight points to a broader conclusion: access to firewood may have been a decisive factor in where these early humans chose to live. Altogether, the findings show that early humans effectively used their environment, relied on accessible resources, and organized their lives around controlled fire.
What is the reading mainly about?
A. Newly discovered evidence that shows how humans used fire
B. The importance of fire in cooking for early humans
C. How fire was used to increase the well-being of early humans
D. An ancient site that contains a lot of archaeological evidence
According to the passage, fire was used by early humans for all of the following EXCEPT:
A. Keeping predators at bay
B. Encouraging social cohesion
C. Increasing communication among people
D. Preserving food for later consumption
Why does the author mention a straight-tusked elephant?
A. To illustrate the dietary preferences of early humans
B. To provide evidence that fire helped ancient humans hunt large animals
C. To make a point by using an animal that is likely familiar to readers
D. To argue that fire made it easier for early humans to make use of available resources
The word “remains” in the last paragraph is closest in meaning to:
A. remnants
B. tokens
C. reminders
D. renderings
What does the author imply about firewood?
A. It was a more important resource than access to fishing sites
B. It was available near most bodies of water
C. Its availability caused a greater social hierarchy within organized groups of early humans
D. It was crucial to determining where early humans would settle
Answer Key
OLIVE OIL: B, C, D, A, A,
ANIMALS: D, D, A, C, A
FIRE: A, D, C, A, D
