Pra ce
Below is a passage from "The Strange Geometry of Stonehenge" by
Katherine B. Shippen
. Read the passage and answer the questions below.
With the passing of time, winds and storms have blown down the lintels.
Some of them still lie on the ground. The stones of the circle inside the first
are somewhat smaller and of a different kind. They are called "bluestones."
Inside the bluestone circle there are sarsen stones again, and here they
are arranged in a big horseshoe. The stones of the horseshoe have been put
up in pairs, each pair topped by a stone lintel. Each group forms a trilithon.
The trilithons are graduated in size; the tallest one, which stands oppo-
site the opening of the horseshoe, is more than 22 feet high, with a lin-
tel 16 feet long and 4 feet thick. Only two trilithons are standing today;
originally there were probably eleven.
Finally, inside the horseshoe there are more bluestones, but only a few
of them. Enough remain, however, to show that they were once arranged
in an oval pattern.
1. What kinds of things is the writer classifying/categorizing in this
passage?
2. What three shapes or patterns does the writer mention in this
passage? How do these categories help you to understand what
Stonehenge looks like?
3. Challenge!
Choose an interest of yours such as a sport you play or a hobby you
like. Write a paragraph that classifies your activities to show how
important this special interest is to you.
Reading Support Practice Book