Test Your Understanding: Simple Reading Comprehension Questions for Students II

The following reading comprehension questions are designed for non-native speakers.  Although they are simple comprehension questions, they will test  your understanding and improve reading skills.

There are two levels: The first level is for beginners and students of elementary level for English proficiency. The second level is more advanced and suitable for intermediate students. 

If you are learning English then a good strategy is developing your reading skills. 

Improve your Reading Comprehension Skills with these Exercises

Read the texts and answer the following questions.

Reading Comprehension Level 1

Text #1

A long time ago there was a funny little caterpillar named Charlie. He lived in a cozy garden with his caterpillar friends. Every day, they crawled around, munching on leaves, and exploring their colorful world. But Charlie dreamed of flying like the beautiful butterflies he saw. One day, he spun a small chrysalis around himself and waited patiently. After some time, he emerged as a magnificent butterfly! With his new wings, he soared through the sky, joining his butterfly friends in their joyful dance. Charlie’s dream had come true, and he lived happily ever after.

Answer these questions based on the text 1:

  1. What is the name of the funny caterpillar?
  2. Where did Charlie live?
  3. What did Charlie and his caterpillar friends do every day?
  4. What did Charlie dream of becoming?
  5. How did Charlie transform into a butterfly?
  6. What did Charlie do after he became a butterfly?

Text #2

Sarah loves baking cookies with her grandma. Every Sunday, they put on their aprons and head to the kitchen. Grandma takes out the flour, sugar, and butter, and Sarah helps measure the ingredients. They mix the dough and shape it into little balls. Then, they put the cookies in the oven and wait for the sweet smell to fill the air. Sarah’s favorite part is tasting the warm cookies when they come out of the oven. They enjoy their cookies with a glass of cold milk. Baking with grandma is the best time of the week!

Answer these questions based on the text 2:

  1. Who does Sarah love baking cookies with?
  2. What do they wear when they bake?
  3. What ingredients do they use for the cookies?
  4. How do they shape the cookies?
  5. What is Sarah’s favorite part of baking?
  6. How does Sarah enjoy her cookies?

Text #3

Max is the pet dog living with his owner Tom. He is a big, fluffy dog with pure white fur. Max likes to play so Tom takes him to the park after school. They both like to run around and have fun. Mas doesn’t only play he can also do tricks like shaking hands, sit, lay down or roll over on command. He even keeps Tom safe at night by sleeping in the same room. You could say that they are best friends as they love spending time together.

Answer these questions based on the text 3:

  1. Who is Tom’s pet dog?
  2. Describe the appearance of Max.
  3. What do Tom and Max do after school?
  4. What tricks can Max do?
  5. Where does Max sleep?
  6. How do Tom and Max feel about each other?

Reading Comprehension Level 2

Text #1

In the heart of New York, there stands a magnificent building known as “The Empire State Building.” It is an iconic skyscraper that attracts millions of tourists each year. Completed in 1931, this Art Deco-style building was once the tallest in the world. Today, visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck on the 86th floor, where they can enjoy breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. The Empire State Building has been featured in numerous movies and is a symbol of New York City’s significance. Its architectural beauty and historical importance make it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the city.

Answer these questions based on the text 1:

  1. What is the name of the famous building iconic building in New York?
  2. When was the Empire State Building completed?
  3. What style of architecture was used for the building?
  4. What activity can visitors do when they visit the 86h floor?
  5. What does the Empire State Building symbolize?
  6. Why is it considered an important landmark for tourists to visit?

Text #2

There is a hidden gem in the bustling city of San Francisco called the Green Thumb gardens. It is a botanical garden filled with a wide variety of flowers, tall trees, and exotic plants from all over the world. Despite the hustle and bustle of a big city the gardens is a peaceful oasis. The garden is open to public who visit in their numbers to walk through the meandering paths, sit by the tranquil ponds and enjoy the fragrance of the beautiful flowers. Many people come to take pictures, have picnics or just relax. The Green Thumb gardens also have educational programs and workshops focusing on gardening and environmental concerns. If you are in town then don’t miss out visiting the special Green Thumb gardens.

Answer these questions based on the text 2:

  1. What is the name of the gardens located in the city of San Francisco?
  2. What do visitors find in the gardens?
  3. What are some activities people can do in the garden?
  4. Why do many people visit this place?
  5. Besides being a beautiful spot, what else does the garden offer to the public?
  6. How would you describe the atmosphere of “Green Thumb Gardens”?

Text #3

In the heart of the dense Amazon rain forest, lies a treasure called the “Lost City of El Dorado.” According to legend, this ancient city is adorned with gold and precious gems, making it a sought-after destination for explorers and adventurers. Over the centuries, many have embarked on daring expeditions to find El Dorado, but none have succeeded. The city remains shrouded in mystery, with tales of its beauty and riches captivating the imagination. Some believe El Dorado is a mythical place, while others are convinced that it awaits discovery. Regardless of its existence, the legend of El Dorado continues to enchant and inspire people worldwide.

Answer these questions based on the text 3:

  1. What is the name of the treasure in the Amazon rain forest?
  2. What is El Dorado said to be adorned with?
  3. Why is El Dorado a sought-after destination?
  4. Have any expeditions successfully found El Dorado?
  5. How do people feel about the existence of El Dorado?
  6. What does the legend of El Dorado do to people’s imagination?