8th Grade Reading Comprehension
8 passages for ages 13–14, with questions and answer keys. Read online or print.
🔎 Informational texts
Feature articleWhy Do We Laugh?A feature article on the science of laughter, from the laughter of apes and rats to its social role and its effect on the body.461 words · 9 questions · RI.8.1Informative articleThe Plastic We Cannot SeeAn informative article about microplastics: where they come from, where they end up and what is known about their effect on health.446 words · 9 questions · RI.8.1Opinion essayShould We Bring Back the Mammoth?An argument essay asking whether we should bring extinct species back to life, weighing the benefits against the risks.505 words · 9 questions · RI.8.1Feature articleThe Surprising Gifts of BoredomA feature article on the link between boredom and creativity, and what happens in the brain when it has nothing to do.457 words · 9 questions · RI.8.1Opinion articleThe Real Price of a Cheap T-ShirtAn opinion article on the environmental and human cost of fast fashion, and what each person can do about it.437 words · 9 questions · RI.8.1Feature articleScience Without a LaboratoryA feature article on citizen science, where members of the public help scientists collect and analyse information.479 words · 9 questions · RI.8.1Opinion articleCan a Machine Be a Teacher?A balanced opinion article asking whether AI tutors can replace teachers, and how the two might work together.461 words · 9 questions · RI.8.1Informative articleThe Noise We No Longer HearAn informative article on city noise: its effects on sleep, learning and urban birds, and possible solutions.433 words · 9 questions · RI.8.1