📖 Reading Passage: The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia's most famous natural wonders. Located off the coast of Queensland, this magnificent coral reef system stretches for over 2,300 kilometres along the northeastern coastline. It is home to thousands of marine species, including colourful fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and sharks.

The reef was formed over millions of years by tiny coral polyps. These small creatures build their homes by creating hard calcium carbonate structures. When they die, new polyps grow on top of the old structures, slowly building the reef higher and larger over time.

Unfortunately, the Great Barrier Reef faces many challenges today. Climate change has caused water temperatures to rise, leading to coral bleaching. Pollution from farming and coastal development also threatens the reef's health. Scientists and conservationists are working hard to protect this incredible ecosystem for future generations.

Tourism is an important industry for Queensland, with over 2 million visitors travelling to see the reef each year. Visitors can explore the reef through snorkelling, scuba diving, or glass-bottom boat tours. The reef generates approximately $6.4 billion for the Australian economy annually.

🔍 Part 1: Multiple Choice Questions

1. How long is the Great Barrier Reef?

Over 1,300 kilometres

Over 2,300 kilometres

Over 3,300 kilometres

Over 4,300 kilometres

2. What are coral polyps?

Large fish that live in the reef

Tiny creatures that build coral structures

Plants that grow on the reef

Tourists who visit the reef

3. Which Australian state is the Great Barrier Reef located near?

New South Wales

Victoria

Queensland

Western Australia

✅ Part 2: True or False

4. Select all the TRUE statements about the Great Barrier Reef:

The reef was formed over millions of years

Climate change helps the reef grow faster

Over 2 million people visit the reef each year

The reef generates about $6.4 billion for Australia's economy

Pollution helps keep the reef healthy

📝 Part 3: Fill in the Blanks

5. Complete the sentences using words from the passage:

The Great Barrier Reef is located off the coast of _________________ and stretches for over _________________ kilometres. The reef is home to thousands of _________________ species including colourful fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and _________________.

6. Fill in the missing information:

Climate change has caused water temperatures to _________________, leading to coral _________________. Scientists and _________________ are working hard to protect this incredible ecosystem.