English Language Studies: Comprehension Worksheets for Grade 9

Comprehension Worksheet 1: The Power of Habit

Passage:

Have you ever wondered why you automatically reach for your phone when you wake up or why you crave something sweet after lunch? The answer lies in the science of habit formation. Our brains are wired to create habits because they help us save mental energy. Instead of making constant decisions, habits allow us to function efficiently.

Habits follow a three-step loop: cue, routine, and reward. A cue triggers the habit, the routine is the behavior itself, and the reward reinforces it. For example, if you always eat a snack while watching TV, the television becomes the cue, eating is the routine, and the pleasure of the snack is the reward. Over time, this pattern becomes automatic.

Unfortunately, bad habits form just as easily as good ones. Eating junk food, procrastinating, and excessive screen time are all examples of habits that can be hard to break. However, scientists suggest that habits can be retrained. One method is habit replacement—instead of trying to quit a bad habit outright, replace it with a better one. If you tend to eat sugary snacks when bored, try eating fruit instead. If you check your phone constantly, keep it in another room and read a book instead.

Understanding how habits work allows us to make conscious choices about them. By actively creating positive routines, we can improve productivity, health, and overall well-being. The power to change lies within us—one small habit at a time.

Questions:

Explain the habit loop mentioned in the passage.
Why does the brain create habits?
Give two examples of bad habits mentioned in the passage.
What is habit replacement, and how can it help break bad habits?
Reflect on your own habits. Identify one good habit and one bad habit, and explain how you can improve.

Comprehension Worksheet 2: The Importance of Biodiversity

Passage:

Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. It exists in different ecosystems, from lush rainforests to deep oceans, and plays a crucial role in maintaining balance in nature. Every species, no matter how small, has a role in the environment.

For example, bees pollinate flowers, allowing plants to reproduce. Trees absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, helping control climate change. Even tiny microorganisms in the soil break down organic matter, enriching the land for agriculture. Without biodiversity, ecosystems would collapse, leading to food shortages, climate instability, and disease outbreaks.

Unfortunately, human activities are harming biodiversity at an alarming rate. Deforestation, pollution, and overfishing are causing many species to go extinct. The destruction of rainforests for agriculture removes the natural habitats of countless species. Plastic pollution in oceans kills marine life. Overfishing disrupts the balance of aquatic ecosystems, endangering species like sharks and tuna.

Scientists warn that if we continue at this rate, Earth could lose half of its species in the next century. However, we can take steps to protect biodiversity. Governments can create protected areas, enforce anti-pollution laws, and promote sustainable practices. Individuals can help by reducing waste, planting trees, and supporting wildlife conservation efforts.

Biodiversity is not just about saving animals and plants—it’s about protecting the delicate balance of life that supports us all. The health of our planet depends on it.

Questions:

What is biodiversity, and why is it important?
How do bees and trees contribute to biodiversity?
Name three human activities that threaten biodiversity.
What are some consequences of biodiversity loss?
Suggest two ways individuals can help protect biodiversity.

Comprehension Worksheet 3: The Mystery of Black Holes

Passage:

Black holes are among the most mysterious and powerful objects in the universe. They form when massive stars run out of fuel and collapse under their own gravity. This collapse creates a singularity, a point of infinite density, surrounded by an invisible boundary called the event horizon. Anything that crosses this boundary—whether light, planets, or even entire stars—is trapped forever.

Black holes are detected through their effects on nearby objects. They create powerful gravitational forces, pulling in nearby gas and dust, which heat up and emit X-rays. Scientists also study gravitational waves, ripples in space-time caused by black hole collisions.

In 2019, astronomers made history by capturing the first-ever image of a black hole. This image, taken using a network of telescopes called the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT), provided proof that black holes are real. Before this, their existence was based on mathematical predictions by Albert Einstein’s theory of general relativity.

Despite their terrifying nature, black holes are essential in the universe. They help shape galaxies, influence star formation, and may even hold clues about the nature of time and space. Scientists continue to study them, hoping to unlock some of the biggest mysteries of physics.

Questions:

How do black holes form?
What is the event horizon, and why is it important?
How do scientists detect black holes if they are invisible?
What major discovery was made in 2019 about black holes?
Why are black holes important for the universe?

Comprehension Worksheet 4: The Influence of Social Media

Passage:

Social media has changed the way people interact, learn, and express themselves. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok allow users to share their lives, opinions, and experiences instantly. However, while social media offers many benefits, it also comes with risks.

On the positive side, social media connects people across the globe. It spreads awareness about important issues, helps small businesses grow, and provides educational resources. Many students use social media to join study groups, learn new skills, and stay updated on world events.

However, excessive social media use can have negative effects. Studies show that spending too much time online can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, especially among teenagers. Cyberbullying, misinformation, and social comparison are common problems. Many people feel pressured to present a “perfect” life online, leading to unrealistic expectations and stress.

Experts suggest setting screen time limits, verifying information before sharing, and taking breaks from social media. Instead of mindlessly scrolling, people can use these platforms to learn, connect meaningfully, and spread positivity. Social media is a powerful tool, but like any tool, it must be used wisely.