What is the main idea of the passage?

A dandelion’s pappus slows its falling seed, giving wind more time to carry it. (The passage explains the structure, the air effect, and the limited opportunity it creates.)

Why can a light seed travel farther?

Its slow fall leaves more time for wind to move it. (The second and third paragraphs connect longer air time with wind transport.)

What is a “pappus”?

the crown of fine hairs above the seed (The opening directly names the white crown of hairs as a pappus.)

Where do most seeds land?

near the parent plant (The final paragraph states that most land near the parent.)

The Dandelion's Flying Seed: Level 1 Reading Comprehension Questions

A dandelion seed hangs beneath a white crown of fine hairs. The crown is called a pappus. When wind pulls the seed free, the hairs spread wide.

The pappus does not flap like a bird's wing. Air moves through and around its many hairs. This creates a swirling pocket above the seed and slows its fall. A light seed can then stay in the air longer.

Most seeds land near the parent plant. Some meet a useful gust and travel much farther. Flying does not promise success. A seed still needs a place with light, water, and soil. The pappus simply gives chance and wind more time to carry it somewhere new across open ground.

Comprehension questions