Tags:
Share:
TOEFL iBT Reading Sample Test – Negative Factual Information Question Type with deep answer key – Sample No. 6
-
August 4, 2025
Negative Factual Information Multiple-Choice Questions (TOEFL Reading Tutorial – How Seeds Grow)
What are Negative Factual Information Questions?
These questions ask you to choose an answer that is NOT true or is NOT stated in the passage. You must carefully look for the option that is different from the facts in the text. This skill helps you focus on what the passage says and what it does NOT say. Being careful is very important for this type!
These questions ask you to choose an answer that is NOT true or is NOT stated in the passage. You must carefully look for the option that is different from the facts in the text. This skill helps you focus on what the passage says and what it does NOT say. Being careful is very important for this type!
How to Answer Negative Factual Information Multiple-Choice Questions – Step by Step
1
Read the Question Very Carefully:
Check for words like NOT, EXCEPT, or FALSE. These questions want the answer that does NOT match the information in the passage.
Example: “All of the following are true about seeds EXCEPT...”
Check for words like NOT, EXCEPT, or FALSE. These questions want the answer that does NOT match the information in the passage.
Example: “All of the following are true about seeds EXCEPT...”
2
Underline the Negative Word:
Always mark or underline the negative word (“NOT” or “EXCEPT”) in the question so you remember you are looking for something NOT found in the text.
Example: Underline “NOT” in the question.
Always mark or underline the negative word (“NOT” or “EXCEPT”) in the question so you remember you are looking for something NOT found in the text.
Example: Underline “NOT” in the question.
3
Read Each Choice and Check the Passage:
For each answer, check if the information is clearly stated in the passage. If you find it, the answer is not correct for this question type!
For each answer, check if the information is clearly stated in the passage. If you find it, the answer is not correct for this question type!
4
Eliminate All True or Supported Choices:
Remove any answer that matches information given in the passage, even if the words are different. Only keep options that are NOT true or NOT mentioned.
Remove any answer that matches information given in the passage, even if the words are different. Only keep options that are NOT true or NOT mentioned.
5
Check the Remaining Answer(s):
Double-check the last answer. Make sure there is no information about it in the passage, or that the passage says something different.
Double-check the last answer. Make sure there is no information about it in the passage, or that the passage says something different.
6
Select the Negative Factual Answer:
Choose the answer that is NOT TRUE, NOT MENTIONED, or is INCORRECT according to the passage. Do not pick answers just because you know them from outside the passage!
Choose the answer that is NOT TRUE, NOT MENTIONED, or is INCORRECT according to the passage. Do not pick answers just because you know them from outside the passage!
7
Be Extra Careful with Opposites and Similar Words:
Some answers look similar or use words from the passage but have a different meaning. Only select the one that is not supported or is wrong according to the text.
Some answers look similar or use words from the passage but have a different meaning. Only select the one that is not supported or is wrong according to the text.
8
Review Your Answer:
Make sure your final choice is the only one NOT mentioned or NOT true in the passage. If you can find information about it in the passage, it is NOT the correct answer.
Make sure your final choice is the only one NOT mentioned or NOT true in the passage. If you can find information about it in the passage, it is NOT the correct answer.
Example Question:
Sample Question:
“All of the following are true about how seeds grow EXCEPT…”
Choices:
(A) Seeds need water to grow.
(B) Seeds always grow in the dark.
(C) Seeds contain a baby plant.
(D) Some seeds need warmth to start growing.
Correct Answer: (B) Seeds always grow in the dark.
Explanation: The passage may say seeds need water, have a baby plant inside, and some need warmth, but it does NOT say they must grow in the dark. That makes (B) the correct answer for this type!
“All of the following are true about how seeds grow EXCEPT…”
Choices:
(A) Seeds need water to grow.
(B) Seeds always grow in the dark.
(C) Seeds contain a baby plant.
(D) Some seeds need warmth to start growing.
Correct Answer: (B) Seeds always grow in the dark.
Explanation: The passage may say seeds need water, have a baby plant inside, and some need warmth, but it does NOT say they must grow in the dark. That makes (B) the correct answer for this type!
Reading Passage: How Seeds Grow
Paragraph 1:
Seeds are one of nature’s most amazing creations. They are small but contain everything needed to grow into a new plant. When we look at seeds, we might think they are just tiny, hard objects, but inside, there is a living part called the embryo. The embryo is like a baby plant, waiting for the right moment to begin growing. Around the embryo, there is food stored to help it start life. This food is important because it gives the young plant energy until it can make its own food from sunlight.
Seeds are one of nature’s most amazing creations. They are small but contain everything needed to grow into a new plant. When we look at seeds, we might think they are just tiny, hard objects, but inside, there is a living part called the embryo. The embryo is like a baby plant, waiting for the right moment to begin growing. Around the embryo, there is food stored to help it start life. This food is important because it gives the young plant energy until it can make its own food from sunlight.
Paragraph 2:
Seeds come in many shapes, sizes, and colours. Some seeds are as small as grains of sand, like those of orchids, while others are as big as coconuts. No matter their size, all seeds have a hard outer covering called a seed coat. The seed coat protects the embryo and its food from damage, dryness, and disease. Sometimes, the seed coat is very thick and hard, making it difficult for water to enter, while in other seeds, the coat is thin and lets water in more easily.
Seeds come in many shapes, sizes, and colours. Some seeds are as small as grains of sand, like those of orchids, while others are as big as coconuts. No matter their size, all seeds have a hard outer covering called a seed coat. The seed coat protects the embryo and its food from damage, dryness, and disease. Sometimes, the seed coat is very thick and hard, making it difficult for water to enter, while in other seeds, the coat is thin and lets water in more easily.
Paragraph 3:
For a seed to start growing, certain conditions must be met. The most important things are water, the right temperature, and sometimes air or light. This process is called germination. When a seed absorbs water, it begins to swell, and the seed coat may soften or even break open. Water is essential because it activates the chemicals inside the seed that help the embryo wake up and start using its stored food.
For a seed to start growing, certain conditions must be met. The most important things are water, the right temperature, and sometimes air or light. This process is called germination. When a seed absorbs water, it begins to swell, and the seed coat may soften or even break open. Water is essential because it activates the chemicals inside the seed that help the embryo wake up and start using its stored food.
Paragraph 4:
Temperature plays a key role in seed germination. Some seeds need warm temperatures, while others can start to grow in cooler weather. Each plant species has its own ideal temperature range for seeds to germinate. If it is too cold or too hot, the seed might stay asleep and not begin to grow at all. In some cases, seeds need to experience a cold period, like winter, before they can germinate in the spring. This helps the plant grow at the right time of year.
Temperature plays a key role in seed germination. Some seeds need warm temperatures, while others can start to grow in cooler weather. Each plant species has its own ideal temperature range for seeds to germinate. If it is too cold or too hot, the seed might stay asleep and not begin to grow at all. In some cases, seeds need to experience a cold period, like winter, before they can germinate in the spring. This helps the plant grow at the right time of year.
Paragraph 5:
Light is another factor for some seeds. Most seeds can germinate in the dark, deep under the soil, but certain seeds, like lettuce or some flowers, need a little bit of light to begin growing. In nature, this usually happens when the seeds are near the surface or if the soil is disturbed. Air, or more exactly, oxygen from the air, is needed for the seed’s respiration. Respiration is how the embryo gets energy from its stored food while it is growing, before the plant has leaves.
Light is another factor for some seeds. Most seeds can germinate in the dark, deep under the soil, but certain seeds, like lettuce or some flowers, need a little bit of light to begin growing. In nature, this usually happens when the seeds are near the surface or if the soil is disturbed. Air, or more exactly, oxygen from the air, is needed for the seed’s respiration. Respiration is how the embryo gets energy from its stored food while it is growing, before the plant has leaves.
Paragraph 6:
Once the right conditions are present, the seed starts to grow. The embryo sends out a tiny root, called the radicle, which grows downward to find water and minerals in the soil. After the root, a small shoot called the plumule grows upward, breaking through the soil to reach the air and light. The first leaves that appear are often not like the real leaves of the plant. They are called seed leaves or cotyledons, and their job is to provide food and energy until the plant can make its own food.
Once the right conditions are present, the seed starts to grow. The embryo sends out a tiny root, called the radicle, which grows downward to find water and minerals in the soil. After the root, a small shoot called the plumule grows upward, breaking through the soil to reach the air and light. The first leaves that appear are often not like the real leaves of the plant. They are called seed leaves or cotyledons, and their job is to provide food and energy until the plant can make its own food.
Paragraph 7:
As the shoot reaches the surface, it begins to turn green and form true leaves. This is when the plant starts to make its own food using sunlight in a process called photosynthesis. The roots continue to grow deeper, anchoring the plant and absorbing more water and nutrients. The young plant is now ready to begin life on its own, outside the seed.
As the shoot reaches the surface, it begins to turn green and form true leaves. This is when the plant starts to make its own food using sunlight in a process called photosynthesis. The roots continue to grow deeper, anchoring the plant and absorbing more water and nutrients. The young plant is now ready to begin life on its own, outside the seed.
Paragraph 8:
Not all seeds will germinate as soon as they are produced. Some seeds enter a resting period called dormancy. Dormancy means the seed will not grow until conditions are just right. This helps seeds survive difficult times, like winter, drought, or even fires. Some seeds have very hard coats and need special conditions to break dormancy. For example, some seeds must pass through the stomach of an animal, where acids weaken the seed coat. Others need to be exposed to fire, which cracks the coat and lets water in.
Not all seeds will germinate as soon as they are produced. Some seeds enter a resting period called dormancy. Dormancy means the seed will not grow until conditions are just right. This helps seeds survive difficult times, like winter, drought, or even fires. Some seeds have very hard coats and need special conditions to break dormancy. For example, some seeds must pass through the stomach of an animal, where acids weaken the seed coat. Others need to be exposed to fire, which cracks the coat and lets water in.
Paragraph 9:
Seeds travel in many ways before they find a good place to grow. Some seeds have wings or hairs and are carried by the wind. Others float on water and can travel long distances across lakes or rivers. Many seeds are eaten by animals or birds and later dropped far away, often with a bit of fertiliser from the animal’s waste. Some seeds even have hooks or sticky surfaces, so they attach to animals’ fur or people’s clothing.
Seeds travel in many ways before they find a good place to grow. Some seeds have wings or hairs and are carried by the wind. Others float on water and can travel long distances across lakes or rivers. Many seeds are eaten by animals or birds and later dropped far away, often with a bit of fertiliser from the animal’s waste. Some seeds even have hooks or sticky surfaces, so they attach to animals’ fur or people’s clothing.
Paragraph 10:
Humans also help seeds to travel. We plant seeds in gardens, fields, and greenhouses. Sometimes, seeds travel by accident, stuck to our shoes or clothes, or mixed with other seeds. Today, seeds can move between countries and continents, allowing people to grow plants from all over the world.
Humans also help seeds to travel. We plant seeds in gardens, fields, and greenhouses. Sometimes, seeds travel by accident, stuck to our shoes or clothes, or mixed with other seeds. Today, seeds can move between countries and continents, allowing people to grow plants from all over the world.
Paragraph 11:
Although seeds are small, they are very strong and can survive many dangers. Some can live for years without water. Others wait for just the right conditions to wake up and begin life. Scientists have even found seeds in ancient tombs that could still grow after thousands of years! Seeds are the start of every plant on Earth, from the smallest flower to the tallest tree.
Although seeds are small, they are very strong and can survive many dangers. Some can live for years without water. Others wait for just the right conditions to wake up and begin life. Scientists have even found seeds in ancient tombs that could still grow after thousands of years! Seeds are the start of every plant on Earth, from the smallest flower to the tallest tree.
Paragraph 12:
In summary, seeds are a wonderful part of the natural world. They are designed to survive, travel, and grow when the time is right. By understanding how seeds grow, we can better protect plants, grow our own food, and enjoy the beauty of nature all around us. The life inside a seed is a miracle that continues every day, everywhere on our planet.
In summary, seeds are a wonderful part of the natural world. They are designed to survive, travel, and grow when the time is right. By understanding how seeds grow, we can better protect plants, grow our own food, and enjoy the beauty of nature all around us. The life inside a seed is a miracle that continues every day, everywhere on our planet.
Negative Factual Information Multiple-Choice Questions
Read each question carefully. Choose the answer that is NOT true or NOT mentioned in the passage. When you select an answer, you will instantly see a detailed explanation!
Answer Key & Step-by-Step Explanations
Review each answer with detailed steps below. These explanations help you master how to spot what is NOT in the passage!
Q1: (C)
Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a way seeds travel before growing?
Step 1: The question asks for a way of seed travel NOT mentioned in the passage.
Step 2: Scan for all ways the passage says seeds move before growing.
Step 3: The passage lists seeds moving by wind, floating on water, eaten and dropped by animals, and attaching to fur or clothes.
Step 4: Look at the answer choices: (A) Wind, (B) Water, and (D) Eaten and dropped are all described in the text.
Step 5: (C) Buried by ants is never mentioned in any paragraph. This is the answer that is NOT in the passage.
Step 6: Double-check: If you can’t find “ants” or “buried by ants,” it must be correct.
Step 7: For Negative Factual Information, always choose the option that is not present in the passage!
Q2: (C)
According to the passage, all of the following are true about seed coats EXCEPT:
Step 1: Find facts about seed coats in the passage (Paragraph 2 and related sections).
Step 2: The passage says seed coats protect the embryo, can be thick/thin, and protect from dryness and disease.
Step 3: (A), (B), and (D) all match these facts.
Step 4: (C) says seed coats help make food from sunlight—this is NOT in the passage.
Step 5: Making food from sunlight is the job of leaves, not the seed coat.
Step 6: The answer is (C) because it’s not true according to the text!
Step 7: Always check the details for each answer and compare to the passage.
Q3: (B)
Which of the following is NOT listed as a condition needed for seeds to germinate?
Step 1: Look for what seeds need to begin growing (germinate) in the passage (Paragraphs 3–5).
Step 2: Passage lists water, right temperature, sometimes air or light.
Step 3: (A) Water, (C) Temperature, (D) Air/oxygen—all stated as requirements.
Step 4: (B) Sunlight is not a requirement for most seeds; in fact, the passage says most can germinate in the dark.
Step 5: So, (B) is NOT listed and is correct for this negative factual question.
Step 6: Check each answer against the facts in the text and cross out those that are mentioned.
Q4: (C)
All of the following statements about dormancy in seeds are true EXCEPT:
Step 1: Find information about dormancy (Paragraph 8).
Step 2: Dormancy helps seeds survive hard times; some need animal digestion or fire to end dormancy.
Step 3: (A), (B), and (D) are clearly supported by the passage.
Step 4: (C) says “all seeds begin to grow as soon as produced”—the passage says the opposite: many seeds wait!
Step 5: (C) is NOT true and is the correct answer for this question type.
Step 6: Always pick the answer that is NOT mentioned or is the opposite of what the passage says.
Q5: (C)
Which of the following is NOT given as a function of seed leaves (cotyledons)?
Step 1: Review what the passage says about seed leaves (cotyledons) in Paragraph 6.
Step 2: The passage says they provide food/energy and help until the plant can make its own food.
Step 3: They also appear before true leaves.
Step 4: (C) says cotyledons photosynthesise for many months after germination, but this is NOT mentioned anywhere.
Step 5: The real photosynthesis begins with true leaves, not seed leaves.
Step 6: So, (C) is NOT a given function of cotyledons and is the correct answer.
Step 7: Double-check all functions and facts before deciding.
20 Hardest Words from the Passage & Questions
Explore the most challenging vocabulary! For each word: see phonetics, grammar, patterns, context meaning, examples, synonyms, and top mistakes. Hover to glow.
Embryo
/ˈɛm.bri.əʊ/ (BrE) /ˈɛm.bri.oʊ/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun
Word Pattern:
embryo + of/in + noun
Definition:
A young plant, animal, or human that is at a very early stage of development.
Example:
Inside a seed, there is a living part called the embryo. (= The beginning of a new plant.)
Synonym: baby (in context), sprout (in plants)
Common Mistake: Spelling as “embrye.”
Germination
/ˌdʒɜː.mɪˈneɪ.ʃən/ (BrE) /ˌdʒɝː.məˈneɪ.ʃən/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (uncountable)
Word Pattern:
germination + of + noun
Definition:
The process by which a seed starts to grow and develop into a plant.
Example:
This process is called germination. (= When a seed begins to grow.)
Synonym: sprouting
Common Mistake: Pronouncing “germ” as in “bacteria.”
Cotyledon
/ˌkɒt.ɪˈliː.dən/ (BrE) /ˌkɑː.t̬əˈliː.dən/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun
Word Pattern:
cotyledon + of + noun
Definition:
A seed leaf in the embryo of a plant, often providing food for the growing plant.
Example:
The first leaves are called seed leaves or cotyledons. (= Special leaves that feed the seedling.)
Synonym: seed leaf
Common Mistake: Saying “cotyledon” as a regular leaf.
Dormancy
/ˈdɔː.mən.si/ (BrE) /ˈdɔːr.mən.si/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (uncountable)
Word Pattern:
dormancy + of/in + noun
Definition:
A period when a seed or plant stops growing to survive difficult conditions.
Example:
Some seeds enter a resting period called dormancy. (= When the seed “sleeps.”)
Synonym: inactivity, rest
Common Mistake: Confusing with “dominance.”
Respiration
/ˌres.pɪˈreɪ.ʃən/ (BrE) /ˌres.pəˈreɪ.ʃən/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (uncountable)
Word Pattern:
respiration + of/in + noun
Definition:
The process by which living things get energy from food by using oxygen.
Example:
Respiration is how the embryo gets energy from its stored food. (= “Breathing” for cells.)
Synonym: breathing (in context)
Common Mistake: Thinking it only means “breathing” in humans.
Plumule
/ˈpluː.mjuːl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun
Word Pattern:
plumule + of + noun
Definition:
The part of a plant embryo that develops into the shoot.
Example:
A small shoot called the plumule grows upward. (= The first stem of a new plant.)
Synonym: shoot
Common Mistake: Pronouncing as “ploom-yool.”
Radicle
/ˈræd.ɪ.kəl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun
Word Pattern:
radicle + of + noun
Definition:
The first root that comes out of a seed during germination.
Example:
The embryo sends out a tiny root called the radicle. (= First root of a sprouting plant.)
Synonym: root
Common Mistake: Using “radicle” to mean radical (very different meaning).
Photosynthesis
/ˌfəʊ.təʊˈsɪn.θə.sɪs/ (BrE) /ˌfoʊ.t̬oʊˈsɪn.θə.sɪs/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (uncountable)
Word Pattern:
photosynthesis + of/in/by + noun
Definition:
The process by which green plants use sunlight to make their own food from water and carbon dioxide.
Example:
Plants make their own food using sunlight in a process called photosynthesis. (= Turning light into food.)
No close synonym
Common Mistake: Misspelling as “photosinthesis.”
Anchoring
/ˈæŋ.kər.ɪŋ/ (BrE) /ˈæŋ.kɚ.ɪŋ/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb (present participle)
Word Pattern:
anchor + noun + in/to + place
Definition:
To fix or hold something firmly in place.
Example:
Roots continue to grow deeper, anchoring the plant. (= Holding the plant steady.)
Synonym: fixing, securing
Common Mistake: Using as a noun (“an anchoring”).
Minerals
/ˈmɪn.ər.əlz/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (plural)
Word Pattern:
minerals + in/from + noun
Definition:
Natural substances found in the earth that are important for plant growth and health.
Example:
Roots find water and minerals in the soil. (= Plant “vitamins.”)
Synonym: nutrients
Common Mistake: Confusing with “vitamins.”
Fertiliser
/ˈfɜː.tɪ.laɪ.zər/ (BrE) /ˈfɝː.t̬ə.laɪ.zɚ/ (AmE: fertilizer)
Part of Speech:
noun
Word Pattern:
fertiliser + for + noun
Definition:
A substance added to soil to help plants grow better.
Example:
Seeds are dropped with a bit of fertiliser from animal’s waste. (= Plant “food.”)
Synonym: plant food
Common Mistake: Spelling as “fertelizer.”
Species
/ˈspiː.ʃiːz/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (countable, plural same as singular)
Word Pattern:
species + of + noun
Definition:
A group of living things that are similar and can reproduce.
Example:
Each plant species has its own ideal temperature. (= Type of plant or animal.)
Synonym: type, kind
Common Mistake: Making “specieses” as plural.
Disturbed
/dɪˈstɜːbd/ (BrE) /dɪˈstɝːbd/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
adjective, verb (past participle)
Word Pattern:
disturbed + by/when + noun/verb-ing
Definition:
Moved or changed from the usual position or condition.
Example:
Seeds grow if the soil is disturbed. (= Moved or changed.)
Synonym: moved, unsettled
Common Mistake: Using as “disturb” for the adjective form.
Conditions
/kənˈdɪʃ.ənz/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (plural)
Word Pattern:
conditions + for/of + noun/verb-ing
Definition:
Things that must exist for something to happen.
Example:
Seeds need the right conditions to grow. (= Situation needed for growth.)
Synonym: requirements
Common Mistake: Confusing with “condition” (singular, meaning “illness”).
Absorb
/əbˈzɔːb/ (BrE) /əbˈzɔːrb/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb
Word Pattern:
absorb + noun (water/light)
Definition:
To take in a liquid, gas, or other substance.
Example:
A seed absorbs water and swells. (= Takes in water.)
Synonym: soak up
Common Mistake: Saying “absorb to.”
Acid
/ˈæs.ɪd/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun
Word Pattern:
acid + in + noun
Definition:
A chemical substance with a sharp taste that can change or break down other things.
Example:
Seeds must pass through an animal’s stomach, where acids weaken the coat. (= Chemicals that break down the seed coat.)
No direct synonym in this context
Common Mistake: Using “acid” for all chemicals.
Survive
/səˈvaɪv/ (BrE) /sɚˈvaɪv/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb
Word Pattern:
survive + noun/verb-ing
Definition:
To stay alive or continue to exist, especially in difficult conditions.
Example:
Seeds can survive many dangers. (= Keep living through hard times.)
Synonym: stay alive
Common Mistake: Using as a noun (“a survive”).
Miracle
/ˈmɪr.ə.kəl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun
Word Pattern:
miracle + of + noun/verb-ing
Definition:
An amazing event that is very difficult to explain or seems impossible.
Example:
The life inside a seed is a miracle. (= A wonderful thing that seems impossible.)
Synonym: wonder
Common Mistake: Using as a verb (“to miracle”).
Coat
/kəʊt/ (BrE) /koʊt/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Word Pattern:
coat + of + noun
Definition:
A layer that covers and protects something.
Example:
The seed coat protects the embryo. (= Outside cover of a seed.)
Synonym: covering
Common Mistake: Using only as “clothes” or “jacket.”
Swells
/swelz/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb (present tense)
Word Pattern:
swell + up/with + noun
Definition:
To become larger or rounder, usually because of taking in liquid.
Example:
When a seed absorbs water, it begins to swell. (= Get bigger.)
Synonym: expand
Common Mistake: Using “swollen” for the verb form.
20 Hardest Phrases & Expressions from the Passage & Questions
Unlock challenging expressions and phrases! For each: see phonetics, grammar, usage, definition, examples, synonyms, and typical learner mistakes. Hover to see a glow!
Waiting for the right moment
/ˈweɪ.tɪŋ fə ðə raɪt ˈməʊ.mənt/ (BrE) /ˈweɪ.tɪŋ fɚ ðə raɪt ˈmoʊ.mənt/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
wait + for + the right moment
Definition:
To delay action until the best time comes.
Example:
The embryo is like a baby plant, waiting for the right moment to begin growing. (= Not acting until conditions are good.)
Synonym: holding back, delaying
Common Mistake: Saying “waiting the right moment.”
Seed coat
/siːd kəʊt/ (BrE) /sid koʊt/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun phrase
Word Pattern:
seed coat + of + noun
Definition:
The outer protective layer covering a seed.
Example:
All seeds have a hard outer covering called a seed coat. (= The “jacket” of a seed.)
Synonym: shell, covering
Common Mistake: Saying “seed’s coat.”
Helps the plant grow
/hɛlps ðə plɑːnt ɡrəʊ/ (BrE) /hɛlps ðə plænt ɡroʊ/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
help + noun + grow
Definition:
Supports or gives what is needed for something to develop.
Example:
The stored food helps the young plant grow. (= Gives support for growing.)
Synonym: assists, supports
Common Mistake: Forgetting the “s” in “helps.”
Protects the embryo
/prəˈtɛkts ði ˈɛm.brɪ.əʊ/ (BrE) /prəˈtɛkts ði ˈɛm.bri.oʊ/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
protect + noun
Definition:
Keeps the baby plant safe from harm.
Example:
The seed coat protects the embryo. (= Keeps it safe.)
Synonym: guards, shields
Common Mistake: Using “protects embryo” (missing “the”).
Break open
/breɪk ˈəʊ.pən/ (BrE) /breɪk ˈoʊ.pən/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
phrasal verb
Word Pattern:
break open + noun
Definition:
To open by force, often suddenly.
Example:
The seed coat may soften or even break open. (= Split or burst.)
Synonym: burst, split
Common Mistake: Saying “open break.”
Right temperature range
/raɪt ˈtɛmpərətʃər reɪndʒ/ (BrE) /raɪt ˈtɛmp(ə)rətʃər reɪndʒ/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun phrase
Word Pattern:
right + noun + range
Definition:
The correct or best span of temperatures for something to happen.
Example:
Each plant species has its own ideal temperature range. (= Best temperature for growth.)
Synonym: suitable temperature
Common Mistake: Saying “temperature right range.”
Experience a cold period
/ɪkˈspɪəriəns ə kəʊld ˈpɪəriəd/ (BrE) /ɪkˈspɪriəns ə koʊld ˈpɪriəd/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
experience + a/an + adjective + period
Definition:
To live through or go through a time when something is cold.
Example:
Some seeds need to experience a cold period before germinating. (= Go through winter.)
Synonym: go through, undergo
Common Mistake: Missing “a.”
Near the surface
/nɪə ðə ˈsɜːfɪs/ (BrE) /nɪr ðə ˈsɝːfɪs/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
prepositional phrase
Word Pattern:
near + the surface of + noun
Definition:
Close to the top layer of something.
Example:
This usually happens when the seeds are near the surface. (= Not deep underground.)
Synonym: close to the top
Common Mistake: Saying “on surface.”
Breaking through the soil
/ˈbreɪkɪŋ θruː ðə sɔɪl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
break(ing) through + noun
Definition:
To push out from under the ground and come into view.
Example:
A small shoot called the plumule grows upward, breaking through the soil. (= Pushing out from below.)
Synonym: pushing through
Common Mistake: Saying “break from soil.”
Make its own food
/meɪk ɪts əʊn fuːd/ (BrE) /meɪk ɪts oʊn fud/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
make + possessive + own food
Definition:
To produce food using natural processes (not eating other things).
Example:
The plant can make its own food using sunlight. (= Create food inside itself.)
Synonym: produce food
Common Mistake: Missing “own.”
Ready to begin life
/ˈrɛdi tə bɪˈɡɪn laɪf/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
adjective + infinitive + noun
Word Pattern:
ready + to + verb + noun
Definition:
Prepared to start growing or developing independently.
Example:
The young plant is now ready to begin life on its own. (= Able to start growing alone.)
Synonym: prepared, set
Common Mistake: Using “begin to ready life.”
Resting period
/ˈrɛstɪŋ ˈpɪəriəd/ (BrE) /ˈrɛstɪŋ ˈpɪriəd/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun phrase
Word Pattern:
resting period + of/for + noun
Definition:
A time when something stops being active.
Example:
Some seeds enter a resting period called dormancy. (= Time with no growth.)
Synonym: pause, break
Common Mistake: Using as “rest period.”
Pass through the stomach
/pɑːs θruː ðə ˈstʌmək/ (BrE) /pæs θru ðə ˈstʌmək/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
pass through + noun
Definition:
To go into and then out of the stomach.
Example:
Some seeds must pass through the stomach of an animal. (= Be eaten and come out.)
Synonym: go through
Common Mistake: Saying “pass from the stomach.”
Cracks the coat
/kræks ðə kəʊt/ (BrE) /kræks ðə koʊt/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
crack + noun
Definition:
To break or split the outside layer of something.
Example:
Fire cracks the coat and lets water in. (= Breaks the hard shell.)
Synonym: breaks open
Common Mistake: Saying “crack the coat.”
Wings or hairs
/wɪŋz ɔː heəz/ (BrE) /wɪŋz ɔr herz/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun phrase
Word Pattern:
wings or hairs + of/on + noun
Definition:
Small parts that help seeds float in the air.
Example:
Some seeds have wings or hairs and are carried by the wind. (= For traveling in the air.)
Synonym: tufts, plumes
Common Mistake: Saying “wings hairs.”
Carried by the wind
/ˈkærid baɪ ðə wɪnd/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
carry + by + noun
Definition:
To be moved by air movement.
Example:
Some seeds are carried by the wind. (= Moved by air.)
Synonym: blown by the wind
Common Mistake: Saying “carried with wind.”
Travel long distances
/ˈtrævəl lɒŋ ˈdɪstənsɪz/ (BrE) /ˈtrævəl lɔːŋ ˈdɪstənsɪz/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
travel + long distances
Definition:
To move or be moved over a great space or area.
Example:
Seeds can travel long distances across lakes or rivers. (= Go very far.)
Synonym: go far, move far
Common Mistake: “Travel for long distances.”
Stuck to our shoes
/stʌk tə aʊə ʃuːz/ (BrE) /stʌk tu aʊr ʃuz/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
stuck to + noun
Definition:
Attached or fixed to the bottom of something (e.g. shoes).
Example:
Seeds travel by accident, stuck to our shoes. (= Attached by accident.)
Synonym: attached to
Common Mistake: “Stuck on our shoes.”
Survive many dangers
/səˈvaɪv ˈmɛni ˈdeɪndʒəz/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
survive + many + noun (plural)
Definition:
To live through or not be killed by many harmful things.
Example:
Seeds are small, but they survive many dangers. (= Keep living through problems.)
Synonym: overcome many problems
Common Mistake: Missing “many.”
Designed to survive
/dɪˈzaɪnd tə səˈvaɪv/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase (passive)
Word Pattern:
be designed to + verb
Definition:
Made or created to keep living or lasting in hard situations.
Example:
Seeds are designed to survive and grow. (= Made so they do not die easily.)
Synonym: built to last
Common Mistake: “Designed for survive.”
Interactive Vocabulary & Phrase Practice – Exercise 1
Test your knowledge! Choose the best answer for each question. Instantly see a detailed explanation after every choice.
Interactive Vocabulary & Phrase Practice – Exercise 2
Ready for more practice? Choose the best answer for each. You’ll see a detailed explanation right after every choice.
Connect with LingExam!
Want more amazing interactive English lessons, tips, and quizzes?
Follow LingExam Language Academy on social media!
🚀 Join our learning community for exclusive videos, fun stories, expert guidance, and updates on new tutorials every week.
Follow LingExam Language Academy on social media!
🚀 Join our learning community for exclusive videos, fun stories, expert guidance, and updates on new tutorials every week.
✨ Never miss a lesson—follow us now! ✨
You May Also Like
-
Aug 12, 2025
Learn how to score Band 7–9 in IELTS Writing Task 2 Problem/Solution essays with this comprehensive tutorial. Includes a detailed...
-
Aug 12, 2025
Master IELTS Writing Task 2 with a Band 7+ roadmap: step-by-step tutorial, model answer, 20 key words & phrases, interactive...
-
Aug 9, 2025
Master TOEFL iBT Speaking Question 2 (Integrated: Campus Announcement/Conversation) with LingExam’s ultra-interactive tutorial! Get expert, step-by-step strategies, official-level practice tasks,...
-
Aug 7, 2025
Master TOEFL iBT Speaking Question 2 (Integrated: Campus Announcement/Conversation) with LingExam’s ultra-interactive tutorial! Get expert, step-by-step strategies, official-level practice tasks,...