Stage 4 Cambridge English Comprehension Worksheet for Students

Instructions

Read the text carefully and then answer the questions that follow in full sentences where required.

The Extraordinary Chameleon

The chameleon is one of the most fascinating reptiles in the world. Many people believe that chameleons change their colour simply to blend in with their surroundings, a skill known as camouflage. While they do use this ability to hide from predators like snakes and birds, it is not the main reason for their colourful transformations. The truth is much more complex and interesting.

A chameleon's skin changes colour for several reasons. One of the primary reasons is to communicate with other chameleons. Bright, vibrant colours might show that a chameleon is excited or trying to attract a mate, while darker colours could be a sign of anger or fear. Their skin colour also helps them regulate their body temperature. A chameleon might turn a darker shade to absorb more heat from the sun when it is cold, or a lighter shade to reflect heat when it is too warm.

Beyond their amazing skin, chameleons have other remarkable features. Their eyes are incredible; they can move independently of each other. This allows a chameleon to look in two different directions at once – one eye can watch for approaching danger while the other looks for food. When it spots a tasty insect, a chameleon uses its powerful, long, and sticky tongue. It can shoot its tongue out at great speed to catch its prey, which is often a long distance away. The tongue can be up to twice the length of its body!

Questions

1. According to the text, what is a common but incorrect belief about why chameleons change colour?


2. List two reasons, besides hiding, that a chameleon changes its colour.
   a) ____________________________________________________
   b) ____________________________________________________


3. Circle the correct answer. The word vibrant in the second paragraph means:
   • A) Dull and boring
   • B) Bright and strong
   • C) Dark and sad


4. How does a chameleon catch its food?


5. Explain why having eyes that can move independently is a useful feature for a chameleon.


6. True or False? A chameleon's tongue is about the same length as its body.
   Circle one:     True     /     False


7. Why might a chameleon turn a darker colour if it feels cold?

Answer Key

1. A common but incorrect belief is that chameleons change colour only to blend in with their surroundings (for camouflage).
2. Any two of the following:
   • To communicate with other chameleons.
   • To show its mood (e.g., anger, fear, excitement).
   • To regulate its body temperature.
3. B) Bright and strong
4. A chameleon catches its food by shooting out its long, sticky tongue at great speed.
5. Having eyes that move independently is useful because it allows the chameleon to look for food and watch for predators at the same time.
6. False (The text states it can be up to twice the length of its body).
7. A chameleon might turn a darker colour when it is cold to absorb more heat from the sun.