Reading B1/B2 . Model 2: Choose the answer for every text.

🌟 B1 Level – “The Sīra – Stories From the Prophet’s Life”

You are going to read four short texts about the Sīra, the traditional biographies of the Prophet Muhammad. For questions 1–4, choose from the texts A–D.

🧠 B1 Tips in Action

Step	Strategy	How It Helps
1	Look for the main idea of each text	Helps you identify what A, B, C, D focus on
2	Watch for clue words	“everyday life,” “danger,” “true,” “leader” → match to questions
3	Don’t worry about difficult details	Focus on the big message only
4	Match keywords	If the question says “danger,” look for a text that mentions threats

Use these tips as you read.

Texts A–D

Text A – Everyday Life in Early Arabia

This writer explains that the Sīra is interesting because it shows what daily life was like in seventh-century Arabia. The stories describe how people traded, travelled, prepared food, and organised their homes. By following Muhammad’s early experiences with his family and community, readers learn about clothes, housing, customs, and the difficulties ordinary people faced. The reviewer believes the Sīra opens a window onto everyday life in the desert world.

Text B – A Time of Danger and Change

For this writer, the Sīra shows how difficult and sometimes dangerous life was for the first Muslims. They discuss moments when Muhammad and his followers faced threats, conflict, and fear. The reviewer highlights how courage and loyalty were essential for survival. What they enjoy most is seeing how people supported each other even in unsafe situations.

Text C – History or Story?

This reviewer warns that the Sīra mixes confirmed history with traditional stories. Some events are well documented, but others were passed down orally for generations. For this reason, the reviewer encourages readers to enjoy the stories but remember that some details may be partly legendary. The book is meaningful, they say, but not every moment can be proven.

Text D – A Leader of Kindness

For this reviewer, Muhammad’s personality is the most important part of the Sīra. They describe him as patient, thoughtful, and compassionate. Even in difficult times, he tried to treat others with fairness. The reviewer believes these qualities make him a unique and inspiring leader, and they explain why so many people still read the Sīra today.

🧩 Questions 1–4

1. Which writer talks mainly about everyday life?A B C D

2. Which writer warns readers about historical accuracy?A B C D

3. Which writer believes Muhammad is shown as a special leader?A B C D

4. Which writer says the stories describe dangerous situations?A B C D

   
   

✅ Answer Key (B1)

1 A 2 C 3 D 4 B

🌟 B2 Level – “The Sīra – Leadership, Community, and Memory”

You are going to read four short texts about the Sīra, the traditional accounts of the Prophet Muhammad’s life. For questions 1–4, choose from texts A–D.

🧠 B2 Strategies (Integrated)

Advanced Skill	How to Apply	Example
Identify the main focus	Is the reviewer talking about history, leadership, accuracy, or conflict?	Helps separate A/B/C/D quickly
Notice attitude words	“questions,” “admire,” “warns,” “emphasises”	Shows how they feel
Detect contrast markers	however, although, while	Helps interpret the writer’s view
Avoid word traps	Same vocabulary ≠ same meaning	“History” may be positive in A, doubtful in C

Keep these ideas in mind as you read.

Texts A–D

Text A – History Told Through Personal Experience

This reviewer values the Sīra because major historical events are shown through Muhammad’s personal experiences. Instead of focusing only on battles or agreements, the narrative explores how these events affected families, friendships, and daily life. The reviewer argues that this personal viewpoint makes the origins of Islam feel human, relatable, and emotionally real.

Text B – Power, Conflict, and Community Survival

For this critic, the Sīra is mainly about struggle and danger. They explore how tribal rivalries, political tensions, and military threats shaped the early community. According to the reviewer, Muhammad’s leadership is shown in moments where he guided his followers through conflict and uncertainty. The Sīra, they say, reveals how a small group survived despite enormous challenges.

Text C – A Blend of Sources

This reviewer focuses on historical reliability. They explain that the Sīra combines eyewitness memories, oral traditions, and later written accounts. While they appreciate its cultural and spiritual importance, they stress that not every detail can be historically confirmed. They recommend reading the text as a mixture of fact and interpretation rather than a strict historical document.

Text D – The Reflective Leader

This critic emphasises Muhammad’s character and leadership style. They describe him as thoughtful, perceptive, and patient, qualities that guided the early Muslim community through difficult times. According to the reviewer, his ability to balance justice with compassion gives the Sīra emotional depth. They argue that this reflective personality is essential to understanding the book.

🧩 Questions 1–4

1. Which writer says the Sīra shows political struggle and danger?A B C D

2. Which writer doubts the historical accuracy of some details?A B C D

3. Which writer highlights Muhammad’s personality and leadership style?A B C D

4. Which reviewer praises the Sīra for showing history from a personal viewpoint?A B C D

   
   

✅ Answer Key (B2)

1 B 2 C 3 D 4 A