The Power Of Play Reading Answers: IELTS Reading Practice Test with Answers

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Updated on Mar 18, 2025, 08:34

The IELTS Reading section assesses your ability to understand and interpret a variety of texts. You will encounter three passages with increasing difficulty, followed by 40 questions that test your skills in identifying main ideas, details, opinions, and implied meanings. The passages in the test contain various question types, such as matching features, Yes/No/Not given, and summary completion.
 

The Power Of Play Reading answers passage explores the significance of play in child development, highlighting its role in cognitive, social, and emotional growth. It discusses how play enhances problem-solving abilities, creativity, and learning, making it a crucial element in early education.
 

Let’s look at The Power Of Play reading answers passage, questions, and answers with explanations.

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1. The Power Of Play Reading Answers Passage

You should spend approximately 20 minutes answering Questions 1 – 14 based on The Power Of Play Reading Answers Passage below. 

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2. The Power Of Play Reading Answers with Sample Questions

Have you read the passage? Now, take the test and find the The Power Of Play Reading Answers!

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3. Check Out Top 20 IELTS Reading Practice Test Questions with Answers

Below are some top free IELTS Reading Practice test online questions with detailed answers to enhance your IELTS preparation online. 

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1.

The Power Of Play Reading Answers Passage

General Information

  • Read Instructions: Understand each question before answering.
  • Manage Time: Spend about 20 minutes per passage.
  • Skim and Scan: Quickly get the main idea and find specific information.
  • Highlight Key Info: Underline essential words or phrases.
  • Answer All Questions: Attempt every question; no penalty for wrong answers.
  • Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and keep your attention on the task.
  • Check Spelling: Ensure correct spelling and grammar.
  • Transfer Answers Clearly: Write answers neatly on the answer sheet.
  • Don’t Dwell: Move on if stuck and return later.
  • Review: If time allows, review your answers.

 

 


The Power Of Play Reading Answers Passage

                                           

Paragraph A.  Almost every child in the world enjoys playing. Children are very driven towards playing that they can play in any state of affairs, like when they don’t have real toys or when active encouragement is not given by parents. For children, the pastime is running, dissembling and building. Researchers and educators perceive that children’s communal, intellectual, physical, and behavioural development all benefit from partaking in these kinds of extracurricular facilities. Undeniably, playtime holds a crucial role in the growth of a healthy child. Playing was recognised as a fundamental right by the United Nations High Commission on Human Rights in 1989.

 

Paragraph B.  Although experts continue to make a rational argument for the noteworthiness of play in children’s lives, there is a decline in the actual time children spend playing. Playing time has decreased by eight hours a week compared to two decades ago (Elkind 2008). Test preparation has displaced play in elementary and middle schools due to an increase in academic demands, and flashcards and educational ‘toys’ are marketed to parents who really want to give their toddlers forewarning. A deceitful paradox between play and learning is created by our society. 

 

Paragraph C. This resulted in their early experiences with play, children developing a wide range of abilities, including self-control, social concession, problem-solving, and a wide pasture of scientific and mathematical knowledge that will serve them throughout their lives. Adults also play a vital role in helping children learn via play.

 

Paragraph D. Researchers and theorists who study play still can’t really agree on a formal definition of what it is. Definitions ambit from specific descriptions of distinct types of play, such as physical, construction, language, or symbolic play (Miller & Almon, 2009), to these broad characteristics that are designed to capture the core of all play behaviour based on analysis and attitudes (e.g. Rubin et al. 1983).

 

Paragraph E. Most concepts of play concentrate on some key characteristics. Play is rendered as ‘something done only for the thrill of doing it’ by Stuart Brown, the founder of the National Institute of Play. To be more precise, he says that it ‘appears desultory, generates pressure and joy, [and] reaching the next level of mastery’ (as quoted in Tippett 2008). In the same way, in 2009, Miller and Almond said that play incorporates ‘Initiatives that are freely selected and directed by children and emerge from intrinsic desire’. Generally, this array of behavioural and dispositional parameters is used to describe play-along perpetuity as being more or less playful (e.g. Rubin et al. 1983).

 

Paragraph F. Play is gratifying: Activity must be enjoyed by children, or it’s not a play. It is substantially motivated: A child’s play is prompted only by the pleasure it provides. It has no extrinsically motivated purpose or ambition. Play is process-lucid: When children play, the meaning is more crucial than the ending. It is candidly chosen, impromptu and voluntary. If a child is under pressure, they will not anticipate play as an activity. If a child is under oppression, they will not anticipate play as an activity. Play is actively engrossed: Physical and/or mental engagement is a prerequisite for players in the activity. Play is metaphoric. It consolidates make-believe.

 

Paragraph G. Children’s playful behaviour can range from 0% to 100% playful, according to this perspective. In determining playfulness Rubin and colleagues did not assign greater weight to any one dimension; however, it had been suggested by other researchers that process orientation and lack of evident functional purpose may be the most crucial features of play (e.g Pellegrini 2009).

 

Paragraph H. Play, from the perspective of a continuum, might be combined with less frivolous motives and attitudes, such as work. Work, unlike pleasure, is usually not considered joyful and is extrinsically motivated(i.e. it is goal-oriented). According to Researcher Joan Goodman (1994), hybrid forms of work and play are not detrimental to learning; rather, they can provide optimal learning environments. For example, a child may be actively engaged and intrinsically motivated while participating in a tough, goal-directed exercise set up by their teacher. The child’s motivation, together with adult guidance, can generate robust chances for joyful learning at this midpoint between play and work.

 

Paragraph I. A recent study suggests that adults may help children’s learning while keeping a lighthearted approach in interactions known as ‘guided play’ (Fisher et al. 2011), which is considered to be significant. The adult’s role in play varies as a function depending on their educational goals and the developmental level of the child (Hirsch-Pasek et al. 2009). There are two types of guided play. Adults can enrich a child’s environment at a very basic level by offering things or experiences that encourage components of a curriculum. Parents or other adults can help children’s play by joining in the enjoyment as a co-player, asking insightful questions, commenting on children’s discoveries, or promoting further investigation or new facets to the child’s activity in the more direct form of directed play. Although regulated play can be somewhat structured, it must also be child-centred (Nicolopoulou et al. 2006). Play should be motivated by the child’s own desire.

 

Paragraph J. In a child-centred approach to playful learning, both free and guided play are vital components. Free play that is intrinsically motivated provides the child with the true anatomy, whereas guided play, which is an avenue, allows parents and educators to provide more targeted learning experiences. In any scenario, children should be deeply invested in their own play, which should be primarily led by the children themselves.

 

Let’s explore the questions and answers of The Power Of Play Reading passage.


Also Read: IELTS Reading Tips & Tricks 2024: Techniques for Band 9

2.

The Power Of Play Reading Answers with Sample Questions

Have you read the passage? Now, take the test and find The Power Of Play Reading Answers! Try to answer these questions by yourself before you sneak a peek at the answers given below.

Questions and Answers 1-5
  • Look at the following statements (Questions 1-5) and the list of researchers below.
  • Match each statement with the correct researcher A-G.
  • Write the correct letter, A-G, in boxes 1-5 on your answer sheet.

 

1. Play can be divided into several separate categories.

2. Adults’ intended goals affect how they play with children.

3. Combining work with play may be the best way for children to learn.

4. Certain elements of play are more significant than others.

5. Activities can be classified on a scale of playfulness.

 

List of Researchers

A.   Elkind

B.   Miller and Almon

C.   Rubin et al.

D.   Stuart Brown

E.   Pellegrini

F.   Joan Goodman

G.   Girsch-Pasek et al.

 

The Power Of Play Reading Answers with Explanations (1-5)
 

Type of question: Matching Features

 

In this task, you are required to match a list of opinions or deeds with the correct individuals from a provided list. This type of question tests your ability to identify relationships and connections between people and their contributions or viewpoints, as mentioned in the text.

 

How to best answer: 

 

  • Carefully read the instructions to know what criteria or basis you're using for matching.
  • Identify the key features or attributes of each item on the list.
  • Use the elimination process to narrow down the options for the remaining matches.
  • Review all matches to ensure they are coherent and aligned with the given criteria.
  • Look for patterns or relationships between items to improve the efficiency of making correct matches.
  • Finalise your answers.

 

1. B – Miller and Almon

 

Reference: Paragraph D:  “Definitions ambit from specific descriptions of distinct types of play, such as physical, construction, language, or symbolic play (Miller & Almon, 2009), to these broad characteristics that are designed to capture the core of all play behaviour based on analysis and attitudes (e.g. Rubin et al. 1983).”

 

Explanation: This line suggests that play can be classified into different types, such as physical, construction, language, or symbolic play. Since these are distinct categories, it confirms that play can be divided into several separate categories, making “Miller and Almon” the correct answer.

 

2. G – Girsch-Pasek et al

 

Reference: Paragraph I: "The adult’s role in play varies as a function depending on their educational goals and the developmental level of the child (Hirsch-Pasek et al. 2009)."

 

Explanation: This line highlights that the way adults participate in children's play depends on their educational objectives. Their intended goals influence their role, which may involve guiding or structuring the play differently. This confirms that adults’ goals affect how they play with children, making “Hirsch-Pasek et al.”  the correct answer.
 

3. F – Joan Goodman

 

Reference: Paragraph H: "According to Researcher Joan Goodman (1994), hybrid forms of work and play are not detrimental to learning; rather, they can provide optimal learning environments."

 

Explanation: This line suggests that a combination of work and play does not hinder learning but instead creates the best conditions for it. The phrase "optimal learning environments" indicates that blending the two can be beneficial. This confirms that combining work with play may be the best way for children to learn, making “Joan Goodman” the correct answer.

 

4. E – Pellegrini

 

Reference: Paragraph G: “In determining playfulness Rubin and colleagues did not assign greater weight to any one dimension; however, it had been suggested by other researchers that process orientation and lack of evident functional purpose may be the most crucial features of play (e.g Pellegrini 2009).”

 

Explanation: This line states that while Rubin and colleagues considered all elements of play equally, Pellegrini suggested that some features, such as process orientation and lack of functional purpose, are the most crucial. This means that certain aspects of play are seen as more important than others, making “Pellegrini” the correct answer.

 

5. C – Rubin et al.

 

Reference: Paragraph G: “Children’s playful behaviour can range from 0% to 100% playful, according to this perspective.”

 

Explanation: This line indicates that playfulness exists on a scale, ranging from 0% to 100%, meaning activities can vary in their level of playfulness. Since this suggests that playfulness : can be measured along a continuum, it confirms that activities can be classified on a scale of playfulness, making “Rubin et al.” the correct answer.

 

Also Read: 400+ IELTS Vocabulary Words

Questions and Answers 6-10
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the The Power Of Play Reading Answers Passage?
In boxes 6-10 on your answer sheet, write
  • YES if the statement agrees with the information.
  • NO if the statement contradicts the information.
  • NOT GIVEN if there is no information about this.

 

6. Children need toys in order to play.

7. It is a mistake to treat play and learning as separate types of activities.

8. Play helps children to develop their artistic talents.

9. Researchers have agreed on a definition of play.

10. Work and play differ in terms of whether or not they have a target.
 

The Power Of Play  Reading Answers With Explanations (6-10)
 

Type of question: Yes/No/Not Given(True/False/Not Given)

 

In this question type, you are required to determine whether the statements provided agree with, contradict, or are not mentioned in the reading passage. 

 

How to best answer: 
 

  • Understand what information is being presented and what is being asked.
  • Find relevant information in the reading passage that relates to the statement.
  • Determine if the statement agrees with, contradicts, or is not mentioned in the passage.
  • If the information is not explicitly provided in the passage, select 'Not Given' rather than making assumptions.
  • Base your answers solely on the information presented in the passage, avoiding personal opinions or outside knowledge.

 

6. No

 

Reference: Paragraph A: “Children are very driven towards playing that they can play in any state of affairs, like when they don’t have real toys or when active encouragement is not given by parents.”

 

Explanation: This line clearly states that children can play even without toys, proving that toys are not a necessity for play. Therefore, the statement that children need toys to play is incorrect, making the answer “No”.

 

7. Yes

 

Reference: Paragraph B: “A deceitful paradox between play and learning is created by our society. “

 

Explanation: The phrase “deceitful paradox” suggests that the division between play and learning is misleading or false. This indicates that treating play and learning as separate activities is a mistake, making the answer “Yes".

 

8. Not Given

 

Reference: Paragraph C. “This resulted in their early experiences with play, children developing a wide range of abilities, including self-control, social concession, problem-solving, and a wide pasture of scientific and mathematical knowledge that will serve them throughout their lives. Adults also play a vital role in helping children learn via play.”

 

Explanation: Although this paragraph discusses the benefits of play, it does not mention artistic talents. Since there is no information regarding artistic development, the answer is “Not Given".

 

9. No

 

Reference: Paragraph D: “Researchers and theorists who study play still can’t really agree on a formal definition of what it is. Definitions ambit from specific descriptions of distinct types of play, to these broad characteristics that are designed to capture the core of all play behaviour based on analysis and attitudes.”

 

Explanation: This sentence confirms that there is no universally accepted definition of play among researchers. Since they have not reached a full agreement, the statement contradicts the passage, making the answer “No".

 

10. Yes

 

Reference: Paragraph H: “Work, unlike pleasure, is usually not considered joyful and is extrinsically motivated (i.e. it is goal-oriented).”

 

Explanation: This sentence highlights the difference between work and play, stating that work is goal-driven while play is not. Since having a goal means having a target, this confirms the statement, making the answer “Yes".


Read more about A Guide on Most Common English Words Used in Daily Life!

Questions and Answers 11-14
  • Complete the summary below.
  • Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the passage for each answer.
  • Write your answers in boxes 11-14 on your answer sheet.

 

Guided play

In the simplest form of guided play, an adult contributes to the environment in which the child is playing. Alternatively, an adult with a child and develop the play, for instance by 11……….. the child to investigate different aspects of their game. Adults can help children to learn through play and may make the activity rather structured, but it should still be based on the child’s 12……….. to play. 

Play without the intervention of adults gives children real 13……….; with adults, play can be 14………… at particular goals. However, all forms of play should be an opportunity for children to have fun.
 

The Power Of Play  Reading Answers With Explanations (11-14)
 

Type of question: Summary completion

 

Under this task, you will be given a summary with incomplete sentences. However, you will not be given any list of words/phrases to choose the missing information. You must refer to the main passage to fill in the missing information. 

 

How to best answer: 

 

  • Read the summary to understand what information it’s missing.
  • Identify keywords and locate them in the main passage to find missing words. 
  • Review the context of the words you’ve chosen to match the summary.
  • Finalise your answers. 

 

11. Encouraging

 

Reference: Paragraph I:  "Parents or other adults can help children’s play by joining in the enjoyment as a co-player, asking insightful questions, commenting on children’s discoveries, or promoting further investigation or new facets to the child’s activity in the more direct form of directed play."

 

Explanation: This line indicates that adults can play an active role in guiding a child's play by encouraging further exploration. By asking questions and making comments, they help children investigate different aspects of their activities, making "encouraging" the correct answer.

 

12. Desire

 

Reference: Paragraph I: "Although regulated play can be somewhat structured, it must also be child-centred (Nicolopoulou et al. 2006). Play should be motivated by the child’s own desire."

 

Explanation: This line highlights that even when adults structure play, it should still be centred around what the child wants. The motivation for play should come from the child’s intrinsic interest, making "desire" the correct answer.

 

13. Autonomy

 

Reference: Paragraph J:  “Free play that is intrinsically motivated provides the child with the true autonomy, whereas guided play which is an avenue allows parents and educators to provide more targeted learning experiences.”

 

Explanation: This line suggests that when children engage in free play without adult interference, they gain a sense of independence and control. Since free play allows children to make their own decisions, "autonomy" is the correct answer.

 

14. Targeted

 

Reference: Paragraph J: “Free play that is intrinsically motivated provides the child with the true autonomy, whereas guided play which is an avenue allows parents and educators to provide more targeted learning experiences.”

 

Explanation: This line shows that guided play involves adult involvement to steer learning toward specific objectives. Since this type of play focuses on achieving set learning goals, "targeted" is the correct answer.

 

Read more about A Guide on Most Common English Words Used in Daily Life!

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FAQs

Q. What are common keywords in The Power Of Play reading passage?

Ans. Common keywords include "child development," "imagination," "cognitive skills," "social interaction," "creativity," and "learning through play." These words often relate to how play influences children's mental, emotional, and social growth.

Q. How to answer matching headings questions in The Power Of Play reading passage?

Ans. Read the first and last sentences of each paragraph to identify the main idea. Look for synonyms of keywords in the headings and match them with the correct paragraph. Avoid choosing a heading based on a single word; focus on the overall theme.

Q. What is a challenging aspect of The Power Of Play reading passage?

Ans. One challenge is distinguishing between different types of play and their effects. The passage may also include complex research findings or expert opinions, requiring careful reading to understand their implications.

Q. Are The Power Of Play passages part of the IELTS Academic or General Reading?

Ans. "The Power Of Play" is part of the IELTS Academic Reading section. It is a research-based passage that discusses educational and psychological aspects of play, making it suitable for academic study.

Q. What is the duration required to complete the reading component of the IELTS exam?

Ans. The reading section of the IELTS exam requires one hour to finish. Each portion has thirteen to fifteen questions and takes about twenty minutes to complete. The headings and subheadings in this passage need close attention. They may offer guidance to help you choose the content and organisation.

Q. Can I write straight on the paper when taking the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. There is no issue because you can write directly on the test questions. To answer the questions accurately, you can write down, highlight, or circle the items. If you are having trouble understanding the meaning of any term, you should reread the sentence. It is offered to help you comprehend the primary notion.

Q. Can you lose your score on the IELTS Reading section if you offer wrong answers?

Ans. Giving false answers on the IELTS reading test will not harm you. As there is a chance you might guess correctly, try to answer rather than leave it blank. If you answer correctly, you will score more points. If you want to perform well on the test, focus on one question at a time. Put the issue on hold for now and return to it later.

Q. Can I take the IELTS Reading test with a pencil instead of a pen?

Ans. A pencil or a pen can be used to complete the reading section of the IELTS exam. Whenever necessary, using a pencil is the most efficient way to finish tasks like matching data or filling in the spaces. Additionally, their words are different from those used in the text. Looking for modified sentences or phrases that maintain their meaning is critical.

Q. Will all the readings you do for the IELTS Reading section apply to college courses?

Ans. The IELTS Reading test is more than just a gauge of general knowledge, despite what many people believe. You will also need to read news stories, magazine or book excerpts, and scientific materials to stimulate public interest further. To get good scores, you must read and write about various subjects. You can become more skilled and progress more swiftly by practising these skills.

Q. I want to take the IELTS Reading test. Can I go over the materials again?

Ans. You can review the content you have reread as you answer the IELTS Reading test questions. The questions and answers will be given quickly to get the answers you need for each inquiry. You should mark out the responses you know are wrong if you are unsure about the answers. Your chances of making the right choice are higher.

Q. I am taking the IELTS Reading test; do I have to read the complete passage to pass?

Ans. It will take some time to read the entire chapter if you are pressed for time. By focusing on the facts you need to know and skimming the text, you can quickly get through it and gain the necessary knowledge to answer the questions. It is a great way to go through the passage fast. While reading it, pay attention to the details. You must pay closer attention to specific questions to get the correct answer.