Comprehension - worksheets KS3

We have some great resources here for comprehension at KS3. 

At Key Stage 3 pupils need to be able to form their own ideas and put these thoughts into writing. This is where comprehension helps students form opinions, discuss their thoughts on varying topics and analyse passages from different perspectives across a broad spectrum of subjects.

KS3 comprehension passages could vary from classical novels, the world today, health issues, moral issues such as truthfulness and honesty, to political and social problems. Some students find this form of comprehension stimulating and inspiring. Others need to be encouraged to put their thoughts into succinct and meaningful prose. They also need to create and convey atmosphere, demonstrate insight into the personality of the writer and to use some imagination.

It is important when tackling passages like this that students question the difference between good and bad writing, correct and incorrect spelling and a general use of the English language. The words 'who, why, what and when' should be constantly on the mind of the reader, as well as maintaining an enjoyment of the author's writing.

The passages in the comprehension worksheets we have chosen below vary from newspaper articles, songs, and factual writing. They even include topics to stimulate debate about everyday issues. These should help pupils to have a bank of their own thoughts and opinions on topics such as: smoking, health issues, literary works, and all the book recommendations read at this age group. To these one can also add articles on current events. 

See also:
Comprehension eBook
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Remember age groups may overlap so you might consider using resources from Key stage 2 for practice. It is always a good idea to start with a passage which is easy. This builds confidence and stimulates interest.

Comprehension Key stage 3 (KS3)

Comprehension Pickwick Papers Year 7 Free Download	Great Expectations Free Download	A visit from St Nicholas comprehension Y7 Free Download	Comprehension Year 9 Alexander
Comprehension KS4 The Light Brigade	Comprehension KS3 Flannan Isle	Year 7 comprehension 1	Comprehension - autobiography KS3
Comprehension for KS3 friends	English Key stage 3 comprehension	KS3 English paper comprehension
Frankenstein comprehension Free Download	A smuggler's song Year 7 comprehension	Jane Eyre Free Download	Victorian Thief Year 7 comprehension
Owl pellets Year 7 comprehension	Newspapers, comprehension & writing KS3	Comprehension for KS3 mercury	Comprehension for KS3 why Free Download
Reading comprehension half truths	Comprehension on Pride and Prejudice KS4	Alice in Wonderland comprehension	Reading a map
Reading comprehension puzzles Y7	Comprehension cinema poster Y7	Comprehension skateboarding Y7	Comprehension: looking for a job
Spelling and comprehension for Year 7	Comprehension about adventures Y7 and 8

At this stage, improving comprehension will come, not just from these sort of exercises, but also by encouraging reading as much as possible and by tackling other aspects of English language including writing. Look here for further help: 
English Key stage 3/4 worksheets

Comprehension Practice

Here are some popular books to prepare students for tests and exams. Included are useful tips on tackling comprehension and marking schemes.