Silent Signals Open Response

Goldfish may not speak, but they still have several ways to communicate with one another. This passage explains how body movements, swimming patterns, fin positions, color changes, and group behavior can send signals about excitement, stress, territory, or food. Readers also learn that goldfish often pay close attention to the actions of other fish, especially when one of them discovers something to eat. The passage shows that even quiet animals can use subtle behaviors to share information.

This worksheet helps students practice making inferences by connecting an action with the message it may represent. They work on identifying examples, interpreting behavior, and explaining how communication helps animals interact within a group. Vocabulary related to signals, body language, schooling, behavior, and territory develops naturally through the reading. It’s a strong nonfiction passage for helping students understand that communication can happen without words or sounds.