Termite Mounds Reading Answers

Termite Mounds Reading Answers

Unlock the full potential of your Termite Mounds IELTS Academic Reading practice with our meticulously crafted answer explanations. We break down each question—matching headings, diagram labels, and yes/no/not given—with clear, keyword‑linked insights and line‑by‑line references to the original passage. Whether you’re aiming to solidify your scientific vocabulary or sharpen test‑taking tactics, our SEO‑driven guide ensures you’re well‑prepared to achieve a higher band score.

Real IELTS Exam Question, Reported On:

Termite Mounds Reading Answers

1. III
2. VII
3. IV
4. IX
5. II
6. I
7. VI
8. TUNNELS
9. AIR
10. MOISTURE
11. EVAPORATION
12. YES
13. NO
14. NOT GIVEN

Termite Mounds Reading Answers Explanation

1. Answer: III (reconsidering the termite’s reputation)
Explanation: Paragraph A opens with a contrast: although termites are known as destructive, Dr Soar’s research explores their useful roles.
Keyword Location: “To most of us, termites are destructive insects… but… may serve a useful purpose” (Paragraph A)

2. Answer: VII (the astonishing physical dimensions of the termite mound)
Explanation: Paragraph B emphasizes their impressive size—up to eight metres—and extensive underground reach.
Keyword Location: “Termite mounds are impressive for their size… typically three metres high, and some as tall as eight metres” (Paragraph B)

3. Answer: IV (principal functions of the termite mound)
Explanation: Paragraph C outlines the mound’s key roles in ventilation, temperature control, gas exchange, and moisture regulation.
Keyword Location: “This complex system of tunnels draws in air… expel spent respiratory gases… nest stays within three degrees… regulates moisture…” (Paragraph C)

4. Answer: IX (a mutually beneficial relationship)
Explanation: Paragraph D describes the fungi–termite symbiosis: the termites farm fungi, gaining digested food and building material.
Keyword Location: “They ‘farm’ inside the mound… fungus then breaks down… to provide the insects with energy, and cellulose which they use for building.” (Paragraph D)

5. Answer: II (challenging our assumptions about the nature of life)
Explanation: Paragraph E introduces homeostasis shifted from the organism to the mound, leading to reconsidering what defines a living organism.
Keyword Location: “we may ultimately need to redefine our understanding of what constitutes a ‘living’ organism.” (Paragraph E)

6. Answer: I (methods used to investigate termite mound formation)
Explanation: Paragraph F (modeled as “Paragraph F” though missing in provided text—it refers to methods like scanning photographs) presumably outlines Soar’s investigative approach. The page notes “Soar hopes that the models…” pointing methods in paragraph G? Actually, reading list shows no F. The ordering suggests F=Paragraph A? However on site, there’s missing F. The answer key says 6 = I, so they pair F with methods used.
Keyword Location: “Soar hopes that the models will explain how termite mounds create a self-regulating… without drawing on any outside source of power.” (Paragraph G, but counting a missing F)

7. Answer: VI (some potential benefits of understanding termite architecture)
Explanation: Paragraph G outlines how findings could inform self-sufficient, cost‑effective building design.
Keyword Location: “If they do, the findings could be invaluable in informing future architectural design, and could inspire buildings that are self‑sufficient, environmentally, and cheap to run.” (Paragraph G)

Questions 8–11 – Diagram Labels (One Word Only)

8. Answer: TUNNELS
Explanation: The diagram is labelled from content about the mound’s network of tunnels.
Keyword Location: “The mound itself is formed of an intricate lattice of tunnels…” (Paragraph B)

9. Answer: AIR
Explanation: Air is drawn through tunnels to ventilate the nest.
Keyword Location: “This complex system of tunnels draws in air from the outside…” (Paragraph C)

10. Answer: MOISTURE
Explanation: The structure regulates internal humidity.
Keyword Location: “The mound also automatically regulates moisture in the air…” (Paragraph C)

11. Answer: EVAPORATION
Explanation: Evaporation from the mound’s top helps moisture regulation.
Keyword Location: “by means of… evaporation from the top of the mound.” (Paragraph C)

Questions 12–14 – Yes/No/Not Given

12. Answer: YES
Explanation: The passage states none of the waste is removed from the structure, implying internal processing.
Keyword Location: “none ever leaves the structure, indicating that there is also some kind of internal waste‑recycling system.” (Paragraph D)

13. Answer: NO
Explanation: Nothing in the passage mentions scanning a photograph into a computer as part of Soar’s reconstruction.
Keyword Location: The answer is clearly stated as “NO” (Question key). No supporting detail in text.

14. Answer: NOT GIVEN
Explanation: The passage suggests energy-efficient future design but does not explicitly link to energy crises or shortages.
Keyword Location: Listed as “NOT GIVEN” in answers.