English comprehension passage with questions and answers
English Comprehension Passages
Enhance your English skills with our comprehensive passages, complete with questions and answers. Perfect for learners seeking to improve comprehension.
Passage:
The Value of Education
Education is the cornerstone of a civilized society. It equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate life and contribute meaningfully to their communities. The importance of education extends beyond the acquisition of knowledge. It fosters critical thinking, enables personal growth, and nurtures a sense of responsibility towards others.
Historically, education has been the primary means of social mobility, enabling people from all walks of life to improve their socio-economic status. In today’s fast-paced world, education is more important than ever. With rapid advancements in technology and shifts in the job market, a strong educational foundation is crucial for adapting to change and seizing new opportunities.
However, education is not without its challenges. Access to quality education remains a significant issue in many parts of the world. Disparities in resources, infrastructure, and teaching quality create a gap between those who have access to good education and those who do not. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from governments, communities, and individuals.
Despite these challenges, the value of education cannot be overstated. It is the key to unlocking potential, breaking the cycle of poverty, and creating a brighter future for all.
Questions:
Q. What is the primary purpose of education according to the passage?
A) To gain knowledge and skills
B) To secure high-paying jobs
C) To foster competition among individuals
D) To encourage dependency on technology
Answer: A) To gain knowledge and skills
Explanation: The passage emphasizes that education equips individuals with knowledge and skills necessary for life and contributing to society.
Q. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a benefit of education in the passage?
A) Personal growth
B) Critical thinking
C) Social mobility
D) Financial independence
Answer: D) Financial independence
Explanation: The passage discusses personal growth, critical thinking, and social mobility as benefits, but does not explicitly mention financial independence.
Q. According to the passage, what remains a significant challenge in the field of education?
A) Over-reliance on technology
B) Access to quality education
C) Lack of interest in education
D) The complexity of the curriculum
Answer: B) Access to quality education
Explanation: The passage highlights that disparities in resources and infrastructure create challenges in accessing quality education.
Q. What role does education play in social mobility, as described in the passage?
A) It reinforces existing social hierarchies.
B) It provides individuals with opportunities to improve their socio-economic status.
C) It discourages people from seeking better opportunities.
D) It limits the ability of people to change their circumstances.
Answer: B) It provides individuals with opportunities to improve their socio-economic status.
Explanation: The passage mentions that historically, education has been a means of improving socio-economic status.
Q. Why is education considered more important than ever in today’s world, according to the passage?
A) Due to the slower pace of technological advancements.
B) Because the job market is stable and predictable.
C) Because a strong educational foundation is needed to adapt to changes and seize opportunities.
D) Because education is less challenging today than in the past.
Answer: C) Because a strong educational foundation is needed to adapt to changes and seize opportunities.
Explanation: The passage states that with rapid advancements in technology and job market changes, education is crucial for adaptation.