1. What are the impressions?
Impressions refer to how something or someone is portrayed in the text.
More Examples:
Example 1: Impression of a storm
Text:
"The wind howled through the trees, bending them almost to the ground. Raindrops pounded against
the windows like tiny fists, and thunder roared across the sky, shaking the very earth beneath her
feet."
Impression: The storm is violent and powerful.
Answer: "The storm is depicted as violent and intense. The phrase ‘wind howled’ gives the
impression of force, while ‘thunder roared’ makes it sound overwhelming. The description
‘bending them almost to the ground’ shows how powerful the storm is."
Example 2: Impression of a city
Text:
"The streets pulsed with life—cars honking, neon lights blinking, and people moving like restless
waves. The scent of roasted chestnuts mixed with exhaust fumes, creating a dizzying cocktail of
sensations."
Impression: The city is lively and energetic.
Answer: "The city is portrayed as vibrant and full of activity. The phrase ‘streets pulsed with
life’ suggests movement, while ‘people moving like restless waves’ creates the impression of
constant energy. The mix of scents adds to the bustling atmosphere."
2. In Your Own Words (Paraphrasing)
This requires students to reword ideas without changing the meaning.
More Examples:
Example 1: Paraphrasing a quote
Text:
"After years of struggle, he finally reached the peak of his career, standing tall with pride, knowing his
hard work had paid off."
Paraphrased Answer: "After facing many challenges, he achieved success and felt proud
that his efforts had been rewarded."
Example 2: Simplifying a complex sentence
Text:
"The teacher’s voice echoed through the silent classroom as she explained the intricate details of the
experiment."
Paraphrased Answer: "The teacher spoke clearly in the quiet classroom while explaining the
experiment’s details."
3. What effect does the writer want to show?
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This question focuses on analysing the impact of language techniques.
More Examples:
Example 1: Creating fear
Text:
"Her footsteps echoed down the empty corridor. Each step felt heavier, her breath quickened, and the
dim light flickered ominously."
Effect: Builds suspense and fear.
Answer: "The description of footsteps echoing and the flickering light creates an eerie
atmosphere, making the reader feel the character’s fear and uncertainty."
Example 2: Showing admiration
Text:
"The mountain stood majestically, its peak touching the clouds, bathed in golden light as the sun set
behind it."
Effect: Creates a sense of wonder and admiration.
Answer: "Words like ‘majestically’ and ‘golden light’ make the mountain seem grand and
awe-inspiring, evoking admiration from the reader."
30 Reading Comprehension Exercises
Each exercise includes a short passage followed by a question.
💡 Section 1: What are the Impressions?
1. "The kitten curled up in the basket, its tiny body rising and falling in peaceful
slumber, a faint purring sound filling the air."
What impression is created of the kitten?
______________________________________________________________________________________
2. "He towered over the crowd, his arms crossed, a deep frown carved into his face,
eyes scanning the room with a look of quiet authority."
What impression does the writer give of the man?
______________________________________________________________________________________
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3. "The lake shimmered under the moonlight, the surface so still it seemed like a mirror
reflecting the stars."
What impression does the writer create about the lake?
______________________________________________________________________________________
4. "The old house stood in decay, its windows cracked, the wooden walls covered in ivy,
as if nature was slowly reclaiming it."
What impression is created about the house?
_____________________________________________________________________________________
5. "She walked into the room, her dress flowing like water, a warm smile lighting up her
face, drawing every eye toward her."
What impression is given of the woman?
_____________________________________________________________________________________
6. "The festival was an explosion of colours and sounds, drums beating in the distance,
lanterns swaying in the night breeze."
What impression does the writer create about the festival?
____________________________________________________________________________________
7. "The library smelled of aged paper and ink, rows upon rows of books standing in
silent wisdom, waiting to be explored."
What impression does the writer create of the library?
___________________________________________________________________________________
8. "The marketplace bustled with energy, vendors calling out their wares, the scent of
spices mixing with the laughter of children."
What impression is given of the marketplace?
___________________________________________________________________________________
9. "His hands trembled as he clutched the letter, his breath shallow, his heart
hammering in his chest."
What impression does the writer give about his emotions?
____________________________________________________________________________________
10. "The stray dog limped along the road, its fur matted, eyes dull and filled with
hunger."
What impression does the writer create about the dog?
____________________________________________________________________________________
Section 2: Paraphrasing (In Your Own Words)
Rewrite the following sentences in your own words:
11. "The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in streaks of crimson and gold."
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____________________________________________________________________________________
12. "He sprinted across the field, his heart pounding, legs moving as fast as they could
carry him."
____________________________________________________________________________________
13. "The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air, making her stomach growl in
anticipation."
____________________________________________________________________________________
14. "Despite his exhaustion, he forced himself to keep going, determination burning in
his eyes."
____________________________________________________________________________________
15. "She watched as the waves crashed against the shore, the salty spray cooling her
face."
___________________________________________________________________________________
16. "The wind whispered through the trees, rustling the leaves in a soft, melodic
rhythm."
___________________________________________________________________________________
17. "His laughter rang through the hall, a sound of pure joy and excitement."
___________________________________________________________________________________
18. "The ancient ruins stood as a reminder of a time long past, their weathered stones
telling stories of forgotten civilizations."
___________________________________________________________________________________
19. "The little girl clung to her mother’s hand, her wide eyes scanning the unfamiliar
crowd with curiosity and nervousness."
____________________________________________________________________________________
20. "The stars sparkled in the vast sky, tiny beacons of light piercing through the
darkness."
____________________________________________________________________________________
Section 3: What effect does the writer want to show?
21. How does the phrase “the sky wept” create an emotional effect?
___________________________________________________________________________________
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22. What effect does the use of short sentences in a suspense scene create?
____________________________________________________________________________________
23. How does repetition in a speech make the message more powerful?
____________________________________________________________________________________
24. Why does a writer describe a battlefield as “a sea of chaos”?
___________________________________________________________________________________
25. How does imagery in a love poem create emotions in the reader?
___________________________________________________________________________________
26. How does on the verge of tears create a sense of vulnerability?
___________________________________________________________________________________
27. What effect does a metaphor comparing time to a thief have?
___________________________________________________________________________________
28. How does alliteration (e.g., “soft summer sky”) affect the reader?
_____________________________________________________________________________________
29. What effect does personification (e.g., “the trees whispered”) create?
____________________________________________________________________________________
30. How does using harsh, sharp words make a villain seem more intimidating?
____________________________________________________________________________________
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Answer Key for the 30 Reading Comprehension Exercises.
Section 1: What are the Impressions?
1. The kitten is peaceful and content. The phrases "curled up," "peaceful slumber,"
and "purring" create an impression of comfort and security.
2. The man seems authoritative and intimidating. The writer describes him as
"towering," "arms crossed," and with a "deep frown," which gives him a commanding
presence.
3. The lake is calm and beautiful. Words like "shimmered," "moonlight," and "mirror
reflecting the stars" create a serene and magical impression.
4. The house appears old and abandoned. The words "decay," "cracked windows,"
and "wooden walls covered in ivy" suggest it is deteriorating and forgotten.
5. The woman is graceful and captivating. The phrases "flowing like water" and
"warm smile lighting up her face" give an impression of elegance and charm.
6. The festival is vibrant and lively. The words "explosion of colours and sounds,"
"drums beating," and "lanterns swaying" create an energetic atmosphere.
7. The library is peaceful and full of knowledge. Phrases like "smelled of aged
paper," "rows upon rows of books," and "silent wisdom" give the impression of a
quiet, intellectual space.
8. The marketplace is busy and lively. The descriptions of "vendors calling out,"
"scent of spices," and "laughter of children" make it feel bustling and full of activity.
9. The man is anxious and nervous. The words "hands trembled," "shallow breath,"
and "heart hammering" suggest fear or worry.
10. The dog is weak and neglected. The phrases "limped," "fur matted," and "eyes
dull with hunger" show it is suffering.
Section 2: Paraphrasing (In Your Own Words)
11. The sun slowly set, filling the sky with shades of red and gold.
12. He ran quickly across the field, his heart racing as he pushed forward.
13. The smell of fresh bread spread through the air, making her feel even hungrier.
14. Even though he was tired, he kept going with determination in his eyes.
15. She watched the waves crash onto the shore, the salty mist cooling her face.
16. The wind moved through the trees, causing the leaves to rustle softly.
17. His joyful laughter echoed in the hall.
18. The old ruins stood as a reminder of ancient times, their stones telling forgotten
stories.
19. The young girl held onto her mother’s hand, looking at the unfamiliar crowd with
curiosity and nervousness.
20. The stars twinkled in the night sky, tiny lights breaking through the darkness.
Section 3: What effect does the writer want to show?
21. "The sky wept" personifies the sky, creating a sad and emotional tone. It
makes the rain feel like an expression of sorrow.
22. Short sentences create tension and urgency. They make the reader feel the
fast-paced action and nervousness of the moment.
23. Repetition reinforces a point and makes it more memorable. It emphasizes an
idea and makes it powerful, especially in speeches.
24. "A sea of chaos" suggests overwhelming confusion and disorder. The
metaphor compares the battlefield to a vast, uncontrollable force.
25. Imagery in a love poem creates deep emotions. Descriptive language helps the
reader visualize and feel the romance.
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26. "On the verge of tears" makes the character seem vulnerable. It shows they
are close to breaking down, evoking sympathy from the reader.
27. Comparing time to a thief suggests it steals moments away quickly. This
metaphor highlights how time passes unexpectedly and can’t be regained.
28. Alliteration, like "soft summer sky," creates a musical and pleasant sound.
It makes the description more poetic and smoother.
29. Personification, such as "the trees whispered," makes nature feel alive. It
adds mystery and a sense of interaction with the environment.
30. Harsh words make the villain sound more menacing. Sharp, aggressive
language makes them appear cruel and intimidating.
Section 1: What are the Impressions?
These questions ask students to identify how the writer portrays something using
descriptive words and phrases.
1. Impression of the kitten → Peaceful and content
Words like "curled up," "peaceful slumber," and "purring" create a soothing,
comfortable feeling.
The kitten seems relaxed, which gives an impression of warmth and security.
2. Impression of the man → Authoritative and intimidating
The phrase "towered over the crowd" suggests dominance or strength.
"Deep frown" and "arms crossed" give the impression of seriousness and control.
3. Impression of the lake → Calm and beautiful
"Shimmered under the moonlight" makes the lake appear magical and peaceful.
"Surface so still it seemed like a mirror" suggests serenity and perfection.
4. Impression of the house → Old and abandoned
Words like "stood in decay," "cracked windows," and "covered in ivy" indicate neglect
and age.
The description makes the house seem forgotten and eerie.
5. Impression of the woman → Graceful and captivating
"Her dress flowing like water" suggests smooth, elegant movements.
"A warm smile lighting up her face" gives the impression of kindness and charm.
6. Impression of the festival → Lively and colourful
The phrase "explosion of colours and sounds" makes it seem energetic.
"Drums beating" and "lanterns swaying" create a festive, joyous atmosphere.
7. Impression of the library → Peaceful and full of knowledge
"Smelled of aged paper and ink" makes the setting feel traditional and scholarly.
"Rows upon rows of books standing in silent wisdom" personifies the books,
suggesting knowledge and history.
8. Impression of the marketplace → Busy and full of life
"Bustled with energy" shows constant movement and activity.
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"Vendors calling out their wares" and "laughter of children" indicate a lively, crowded
space.
9. Impression of the man’s emotions → Anxious and nervous
"His hands trembled," "shallow breath," and "heart hammering" all suggest fear or
anxiety.
The physical reactions make it clear he is under stress or pressure.
10. Impression of the dog → Weak and neglected
"Limped," "fur matted," and "eyes dull with hunger" indicate suffering.
The writer wants the reader to feel pity for the dog.
Section 2: Paraphrasing (In Your Own Words)
These questions test whether students can reword a sentence while keeping the same
meaning.
11. Original: "The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in streaks of
crimson and gold."
Paraphrase: "The sun slowly set, filling the sky with shades of red and gold."
Explanation: "Dipped below the horizon" is changed to "slowly set." "Painting the
sky" is changed to "filling the sky."
12. Original: "He sprinted across the field, his heart pounding, legs moving as fast
as they could carry him."
Paraphrase: "He ran quickly across the field, his heart racing as he pushed
forward."
Explanation: "Sprinted" becomes "ran quickly," and "legs moving fast" is simplified
as "pushed forward."
13. Original: "The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air, making her stomach
growl in anticipation."
Paraphrase: "The smell of fresh bread spread through the air, making her feel even
hungrier."
Explanation: "Aroma" is replaced with "smell," and "stomach growl" is changed to
"feel hungrier."
14. Original: "Despite his exhaustion, he forced himself to keep going,
determination burning in his eyes."
Paraphrase: "Even though he was tired, he kept going with determination in his
eyes."
Explanation: "Despite his exhaustion" is simplified to "even though he was tired."
15. Original: "She watched as the waves crashed against the shore, the salty
spray cooling her face."
Paraphrase: "She watched the waves crash onto the shore, the salty mist cooling
her face."
Explanation: "Salty spray" is changed to "salty mist," and the sentence structure is
adjusted slightly.
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Section 3: What effect does the writer want to show?
These questions focus on the impact of literary devices.
21. Effect of "The sky wept"
Personification makes the sky seem emotional, enhancing the sadness of the
scene.
22. Effect of short sentences in a suspense scene
Short sentences create urgency and tension, making the action feel fast-paced and
dramatic.
23. Effect of repetition in a speech
Repeating words makes them more powerful and persuasive, helping the
message stick in the reader’s mind.
24. Effect of "a sea of chaos"
Metaphor compares chaos to an uncontrollable sea, emphasizing the overwhelming
nature of the scene.
25. Effect of imagery in a love poem
Descriptive words create strong emotions and help the reader visualize the
depth of love.
26. Effect of "on the verge of tears"
This phrase makes the character seem vulnerable and emotional, making the
reader feel sympathy.
27. Effect of "Time is a thief"
Metaphor makes time seem deceptive and uncontrollable, showing how quickly
it passes.
28. Effect of alliteration ("soft summer sky")
Alliteration creates a smooth, musical quality, making the description more poetic.
29. Effect of personification ("the trees whispered")
Personification makes nature seem alive and mysterious, enhancing the
atmosphere.
30. Effect of using harsh words for a villain
Harsh, sharp words make the villain seem dangerous, cruel, and powerful,
making them more intimidating.
