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The Quokka — Reading Comprehension

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MS-LS4-D
MS-LS1-1

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This engaging science reading passage, titled "The Quokka: The Happiest Animal on Earth?", introduces students to one of Australia's most beloved and unique animals. Aligned with NGSS Life Science standards, particularly MS-LS4-D (Biodiversity and Humans), the passage describes the Quokka's charming appearance, including its famous smile." It highlights its status as a marsupial and its native habitat

CONTENT PREVIEW

Meet the Quokka (pronounced KWOK-uh), often called "the world's happiest animal" because of its famously cheerful expression! This adorable and unique animal is a small, furry marsupial that looks like a miniature kangaroo. It has round ears, a small nose, and a permanent "smile" that has made it a favorite for tourists and photographers.

The Quokka is native to Australia, with its largest populations found on Rottnest Island, just off the coast of Perth, Western Australia. While a few live on the mainland, Rottnest Island is like a special paradise where they thrive without many natural predators.

These charming creatures are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. During the day, they rest in the shade, often hidden among vegetation. Quokkas are herbivores, enjoying a diet of leaves, stems, bark, and grasses. Like other marsupials, female Quokkas have a pouch where they carry and raise their young, called "joeys."

Quokkas are naturally curious and not afraid of humans, which contributes to their "friendly" reputation. However, it's important to remember they are wild animals and should be observed respectfully without touching or feeding them. Despite their thriving numbers on Rottnest Island, the Quokka is considered vulnerable to extinction on the mainland due to habitat loss and predators. Protecting their unique habitat and raising awareness about their needs are crucial conservation efforts to ensure this smiling animal continues to contribute to Australia's amazing biodiversity.

Fun Fact: When a mother Quokka feels threatened, she might throw her joey out of her pouch as a distraction to escape, hoping the predator will focus on the baby instead! (Don't worry, this is a very rare last resort!)

What is the Quokka often called?

The fastest animalThe happiest animalThe biggest animalThe loudest animal

Where is the largest population of Quokkas found?

TasmaniaRottnest IslandSydneyNew Zealand

What type of animal is a Quokka?

A rodentA reptileA marsupialA bird

What does a Quokka's diet mainly consist of?

MeatInsectsLeaves and grassesFish

What does "nocturnal" mean for the Quokka?

It sleeps all night.It is active during the day.It is active at night.It migrates frequently.

What do female Quokkas use to carry their young?

Their backA pouchA basketTheir mouth