Sloths are some of the most interesting animals in the world. They are slow-moving mammals that spend most of their time hanging upside down in the trees of Central and South American rainforests. They have a special kind of fur that camouflages them from their predators, and an extra-long curved claw that helps them to hang on tightly to branches. Sloths are mostly nocturnal, sleeping during the day and becoming active at night, when they forage for food. They are expert swimmers and climbers, and can move twice as fast in the water as they do on land. Sloths eat a variety of leaves, buds, and fruits, and occasionally small insects. They have an incredibly slow metabolism, and it can take up to a month for them to digest their food. Sloths are solitary creatures, but you can sometimes find them sleeping in groups or cuddling with one another. While they may seem like lazy animals, they are actually very important to the rainforest ecosystem, spreading seeds, providing homes for other creatures, and helping to keep the trees healthy. Sloths are an amazing species, and we can all be thankful that they are still around.

What role do sloths play in the rainforest ecosystem?

(1 point)
Responses

They spread diseases.
They spread diseases.

They eat other animals.
They eat other animals.

They destroy trees.
They destroy trees.

They provide homes for other creatures.

They provide homes for other creatures.

Sloths are some of the most interesting animals in the world. They are slow-moving mammals that spend most of their time hanging upside down in the trees of Central and South American rainforests. They have a special kind of fur that camouflages them from their predators, and an extra-long curved claw that helps them to hang on tightly to branches. Sloths are mostly nocturnal, sleeping during the day and becoming active at night, when they forage for food. They are expert swimmers and climbers, and can move twice as fast in the water as they do on land. Sloths eat a variety of leaves, buds, and fruits, and occasionally small insects. They have an incredibly slow metabolism, and it can take up to a month for them to digest their food. Sloths are solitary creatures, but you can sometimes find them sleeping in groups or cuddling with one another. While they may seem like lazy animals, they are actually very important to the rainforest ecosystem, spreading seeds, providing homes for other creatures, and helping to keep the trees healthy. Sloths are an amazing species, and we can all be thankful that they are still around.

What is the purpose of the last sentence in the text? (“Sloths are an amazing species, and we can all be thankful that they are still around.”)

(1 point)
Responses

To ask a question
To ask a question

To provide additional information about sloths
To provide additional information about sloths

To summarize the main ideas of the text
To summarize the main ideas of the text

To introduce a new topic

To summarize the main ideas of the text.

List 3 traits of narrative nonfiction.

1. Real Events and People: Narrative nonfiction is based on real events, facts, and individuals. It presents a story that is grounded in reality and seeks to provide accurate information.

2. Storytelling Approach: Narrative nonfiction uses storytelling techniques to convey information and engage readers. It employs narrative elements such as characters, plot, setting, and dialogue to make the factual content more engaging and readable.

3. Personal Perspective: Narrative nonfiction often incorporates the author's personal perspective or experiences. It may include the author's observations, reflections, or interpretations of the events or people being discussed. This personal touch adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.

Use the paragraph below to answer the question.

Sloths are some of the most interesting animals in the world. They are slow-moving mammals that spend most of their time hanging upside down in the trees of Central and South American rainforests. They have a special kind of fur that camouflages them from their predators, and an extra-long curved claw that helps them to hang on tightly to branches. Sloths are mostly nocturnal, sleeping during the day and becoming active at night, when they forage for food. They are expert swimmers and climbers, and can move twice as fast in the water as they do on land. Sloths eat a variety of leaves, buds, and fruits, and occasionally small insects. They have an incredibly slow metabolism, and it can take up to a month for them to digest their food. Sloths are solitary creatures, but you can sometimes find them sleeping in groups or cuddling with one another. While they may seem like lazy animals, they are actually very important to the rainforest ecosystem, spreading seeds, providing homes for other creatures, and helping to keep the trees healthy. Sloths are an amazing species, and we can all be thankful that they are still around.

In 3-4 sentences, identify and explain the evidence that the author uses to support the claim that “Sloths are some of the most interesting animals in the world.”

(4 points)

The evidence that the author uses to support the claim that "Sloths are some of the most interesting animals in the world" includes:

1. Description of Unique Adaptations: The author highlights the special characteristics of sloths, such as their slow movement, upside-down hanging, camouflaging fur, and extra-long curved claw. These adaptations make them distinct and fascinating creatures.

2. Nocturnal Behavior and Expertise in Different Environments: The author mentions that sloths are mostly nocturnal and forage for food at night. Additionally, they are expert swimmers and climbers, capable of moving twice as fast in water compared to land. This versatility in different habitats adds to their intrigue and uniqueness.

3. Importance to the Rainforest Ecosystem: The author emphasizes that sloths play a vital role in the rainforest ecosystem, spreading seeds, providing homes for other creatures, and contributing to the health of the trees. This demonstrates the ecological significance of sloths and their intricate interconnections within their environment.