Comprehension Passage

Read the passage, then answer the 5 questions that follow. Marking schemes are included.

Read the passage below and answer questions that follow

Renewable energy is becoming increasingly important as the world seeks to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. Solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy are among the most widely used renewable sources. Unlike coal, oil, and natural gas, these energy sources do not produce harmful greenhouse gases when generating electricity.

Kenya has emerged as a leader in renewable energy in Africa. The country generates a significant portion of its electricity from geothermal sources in the Rift Valley. The Olkaria Geothermal Power Station is one of the largest in the world. Additionally, wind farms such as the Lake Turkana Wind Power project contribute substantially to the national grid.

Despite the advantages of renewable energy, there are challenges to its widespread adoption. The initial cost of installing solar panels or wind turbines can be prohibitively expensive for many countries and communities. Energy storage remains a technical challenge, as solar and wind power are intermittent — they depend on weather conditions.

Experts believe that continued investment in research and development will overcome these obstacles. As technology improves and costs decrease, renewable energy is expected to become the dominant source of electricity worldwide. Governments that invest in clean energy today will be better positioned to provide affordable and sustainable power to their citizens in the future.

  1. Question 1

    1 mark

    According to the passage, renewable energy sources are different from fossil fuels because they

    A. are more expensive to use

    B. do not produce greenhouse gases

    C. are found only in Kenya

    D. require more workers to operate

    (1 mark)

    Marking scheme

    B

  2. Question 2

    1 mark

    The word 'intermittent' as used in the passage means

    A. constant and reliable

    B. extremely powerful

    C. not continuous or steady

    D. completely unpredictable

    (1 mark)

    Marking scheme for this question

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  3. Question 3

    1 mark

    Which renewable energy source is Kenya particularly known for?

    A. Solar energy

    B. Nuclear energy

    C. Geothermal energy

    D. Tidal energy

    (1 mark)

    Marking scheme for this question

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  4. Question 4

    1 mark

    From the passage, we can conclude that

    A. fossil fuels will never be replaced

    B. renewable energy has no disadvantages

    C. technology will make renewable energy more accessible

    D. only wealthy countries can use renewable energy

    (1 mark)

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  5. Question 5

    1 mark

    The best title for this passage would be

    A. Kenya's geothermal power stations

    B. Why fossil fuels are better

    C. The rise and future of renewable energy

    D. How wind turbines work

    (1 mark)

    Marking scheme for this question

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