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PASSAGE 6

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D to indicate the correct answer to each

of the questions.

Algae is a primitive form of life, a single-celled or simple multiple-celled organism that is able to

conduct the process of photosynthesis. It is generally found in water but can also be found elsewhere,

growing on such surfaces as rocks or trees. The various types of algae are classified according to

pigment.

Blue-green algae, or Cyanophyta, can grow at very high temperatures and under high-intensity light.

This is a microscopic type of algae, and some species consist of only one cell. Blue-green algae is the

oldest form of life with photosynthetic capabilities, and fossilized remains of this type of algae more than

3.4 billion years old have been found in parts of Africa.

Green algae, or Chlorophyta, is generally found in fresh water. It reproduces on the surfaces of

enclosed bodies of water such as ponds or lakes and has the appearance of a fuzzy green coating on the

water. In large quantities, this type of algae may reproduce enough to give a green color to an entire lake.

Brown algae, or Phaeophyta, grows in shallow, temperate water. This type of algae is the largest in

size and is most recognizable as a type of seaweed; kelp is a type of brown algae that has grown to

lengths of up to 200 feet. Its long stalks can be enmeshed on the ocean floor, or it can float freely on the

ocean’s surface.

Red algae, or Rhodophyta, is a small, delicate organism found in the deep waters of the subtropics,

where it often grows with coral. This type of algae has an essential role in the formation of coral reefs: it

secretes lime from the seawater to foster the formation of limestone deposits.

(Source: TOEFL Reading)

Question 1. What is the author’s main purpose?

A.

To show what color algae is

B.

To differentiate the various classifications of algae

C. To describe where algae is found

D. To clarify the appearance of different types of algae

Question 2. Which of the following is NOT true about algae?

A. All types have only one cell.

B. It can be found out of water.

C. It can use photosynthesis.

D. It is not a relatively new form of life.

Question 3. The word “pigment” in the passage means

.

A. size

B. composition

C. shape

D. color

Question 4. The word “microscopic” in the passage is closest in meaning to

.

A. visual

B. mechanical

C. tiny

D. bacterial

Question 5. Algae remnants found in Africa are

.

A. still flourishing

B. extremely old

C. photogenic

D. red in color

Question 6. Green algae is generally found

.

A. on the ocean floor

B. in fresh water

C. throughout ponds and lakes

D. surrounding enclosed bodies of water

Question 7. According to the passage, red algae is

.