Reading - The Magic of the Cliffs of Moher

Read the text and complete the activities below.

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most famous natural landmarks, located on the rugged west coast in County Clare. Stretching for about 14 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean, they rise to a height of over 214 meters at their highest point. The cliffs offer spectacular views of the ocean, the Aran Islands, and the distant hills of Connemara. Formed over 300 million years ago, the layers of shale and sandstone tell a geological story that attracts scientists and tourists from all over the world.

Walking along the safe, paved pathways, visitors can experience the power of nature. The area is a protected habitat for many species of birds, including the famous puffins, which nest on the steep rock faces during the spring. Because the weather in Ireland can be very unpredictable, the cliffs can be covered in a thick mist one minute and bathed in bright sunshine the next. This changing light makes the landscape a favorite spot for photographers and filmmakers; in fact, the cliffs have appeared in famous movies like Harry Potter.

To protect the environment, there is an eco-friendly visitor center built into the hillside. It provides information about the local wildlife, geology, and history. While the cliffs are beautiful, safety is a priority, and guests are always advised to stay on the marked trails. Whether you are looking for a peaceful walk or a dramatic photo, the Cliffs of Moher provide an unforgettable experience that captures the wild spirit of the Emerald Isle.

ACTIVITIES

Exercise 1: Multiple Choice

Choose the best answer for each question.

1. How long are the Cliffs of Moher?
Select... a) 214 meters b) 14 kilometers c) 300 million years d) 5 kilometers

2. What can be seen from the cliffs on a clear day?
Select... a) London b) The Aran Islands c) The Eiffel Tower d) New York City

3. Which animal is specifically mentioned as nesting there?
Select... a) Eagles b) Seagulls c) Puffins d) Falcons

4. Why are the cliffs popular with filmmakers?
Select... a) Because of the modern buildings b) Because they are in the center of Dublin c) Because of the dramatic landscape and light d) Because it never rains there

5. Where is the visitor center located?
Select... a) On top of O'Brien's Tower b) Built into the hillside c) In the middle of the ocean d) In a nearby city

Exercise 2: True, False, or Not Given

Mark each statement as True (T), False (F), or Not Given (NG).

1. The cliffs were formed relatively recently in Earth's history.
Select... True False Not Given

2. Visitors are allowed to walk anywhere they want for the best photos.
Select... True False Not Given

3. The weather at the cliffs stays the same throughout the day.
Select... True False Not Given

4. The cliffs have been used as a filming location for a Harry Potter movie.
Select... True False Not Given

5. It costs 20 Euros to enter the visitor center.
Select... True False Not Given

Exercise 3: Gap Fill

Fill in the blanks with the correct word: Spectacular, Unpredictable, Unforgettable, Protect, Habitat.

1. The cliffs are a natural for many different sea birds.

2. From the top, the view of the Atlantic Ocean is absolutely .

3. Because the weather is , you should always bring a raincoat.

4. The visitor center was built to help the local environment.

5. Seeing the sunset over the ocean was an experience for the tourists.