Comprehension Passage

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

Read the passage below and answer the questions that follow

Mobile phones have changed life in Kenya in many surprising ways. Not long ago, sending a message to a relative in a faraway town could take several days. People had to write letters or travel long distances to share important news. Today, a simple phone allows a farmer in Meru to speak to his daughter in Mombasa within seconds. This change has brought families closer together than ever before.

Beyond communication, mobile phones have transformed the way people handle money. Through mobile banking, traders can send and receive payments without carrying large amounts of cash. A woman selling vegetables at a market can now save her earnings safely on her phone. Farmers can also check the latest crop prices, which helps them avoid being cheated by dishonest middlemen who once took advantage of them.

However, mobile phones also bring certain challenges. Some young people spend too many hours staring at screens instead of studying or playing outdoors. Others fall victim to dishonest people who use phones to trick them into sending money. Teachers and parents worry that constant use of phones may weaken important skills, such as reading books and holding face-to-face conversations.

Like any powerful tool, the mobile phone can be used wisely or carelessly. When used responsibly, it can educate, connect and create opportunities for millions of people. When misused, it can waste time and cause harm. The challenge for every user is to enjoy the benefits of this remarkable invention while avoiding its dangers and using it for worthwhile purposes.

  1. Question 1

    1 mark

    According to the passage, how did people share important news long ago?

    A. By writing letters or travelling long distances

    B. By using mobile banking services

    C. By checking crop prices on their phones

    D. By sending instant text messages

    (1 mark)

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  2. Question 2

    1 mark

    How do mobile phones help farmers avoid being cheated?

    A. By giving them free money

    B. By teaching them how to grow crops

    C. By allowing them to travel faster

    D. By letting them check the latest crop prices

    (1 mark)

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  3. Question 3

    1 mark

    The word 'transformed' as used in the passage means

    A. completely changed

    B. slightly damaged

    C. quickly stopped

    D. carefully hidden

    (1 mark)

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  4. Question 4

    1 mark

    What is the main message the writer wants readers to understand?

    A. Mobile phones are only useful for making money

    B. Mobile phones must be used wisely to bring benefits and avoid harm

    C. Mobile phones are too expensive for most people

    D. Mobile phones should be banned completely

    (1 mark)

    Marking scheme

    B. Mobile phones must be used wisely to bring benefits and avoid harm

  5. Question 5

    1 mark

    The best title for this passage would be

    A. How Mobile Phones Have Changed Kenyan Life

    B. Farming in Meru and Mombasa

    C. The History of Letter Writing

    D. Dangers of the Internet

    (1 mark)

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