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Step 2 Comprehension Questions
Paragraph 5
(5) Have you ever wondered why, among the world's large mammals, kangaroos alone hop? It turns out that
hopping is the most efficient way of getting around at medium speeds. The energy of the bounce is stored in the
tendons of the legs, and the intestines bounce up and down like a piston, emptying and filling the lungs without
needing to activate the chest muscles. When you travel long distances to find a little feed, such efficiency is a
must. Have you also wondered why koalas sleep for a long time? This is basically for economical reasons. With
their eyes shut for about 16-20 hours a day, they can save energy as sleep requires very little energy.
1. Why do kangaroos hop?
2. Why is hopping the most efficient way of getting around at medium speeds?
3. Why do koalas sleep for a long time?
Paragraph 6
(6) If you are visiting Australia for a short time, you don't have to go far to experience some of the richness of
the environment. Even places like Sydney have preserved extraordinary fragments of their original environment
that are relatively easy to access. It is worthwhile understanding the basics about how nature operates in
Australia. This is important because there's nowhere like Australia. Once you get to know about its origins and
natural rhythms, you will appreciate the place so much more.
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1. If you are visiting Australia for a short time, how far would you have to go to experience some of the richness
of the environment?
2. Why is it important to understand the basics about how nature operates in Australia?
3. What will you appreciate so much more once you get to know about Australia's origins and natural rhythms?
