Unveiling the Step Pyramid of Djoser: IELTS Reading Passage with Questions & Answers

The Step Pyramid of Djoser Reading Passage

The Step Pyramid of Djoser stands as an architectural marvel within the necropolis of Saqqara, an ancient burial ground near Memphis in Lower Egypt. This pyramid, built during the 27th century BCE, signifies a critical transformation in the construction of royal tombs and is considered a seminal advancement in the ancient world's architectural endeavors.

Commissioned by Pharaoh Djoser, the pyramid was designed by his vizier, Imhotep, who is often credited as one of the earliest known architects and engineers in recorded history. The monument is unique for its six-tiered, four-sided structure, which rises to a height of approximately 62 meters, making it one of the earliest colossal stone buildings in Egypt and a predecessor to the later smooth-sided pyramids.

Beyond its physical structure, the Step Pyramid complex encompasses a vast network of ceremonial structures, including temples, courtyards, and shrines, all enclosed within a substantial boundary wall. This complex is thought to have served not only as a tomb for the Pharaoh but also as a central point for rituals and ceremonies related to the afterlife.

The design of the Step Pyramid marks a departure from the traditional flat-roofed mastaba tombs that were prevalent during the earlier periods. Its construction signaled the Egyptians' growing ambitions and their advancements in building techniques, which allowed for the creation of such an imposing structure.

As the centuries passed, the Step Pyramid stood as an enduring symbol of the ancient Egyptians' architectural genius and their beliefs in the afterlife. Despite the ravages of time, it continues to draw the attention of archaeologists and historians who seek to unravel the mysteries of its construction and the life of the Pharaoh it was built for.

The pyramid’s layers are representative of the primordial mound from which the ancient Egyptians believed life originated. The subterranean chambers and tunnels beneath the pyramid are an elaborate maze, stretching over 5.7 kilometers in length, which housed the king's sarcophagus and offered protection from tomb raiders.

Now, let us dive deeper into understanding this ancient wonder by exploring a series of IELTS-style questions that reflect on the reading passage.

Questions:

Q1. Who was the Step Pyramid of Djoser commissioned by?

A. Imhotep

B. The Pharaoh Djoser

C. King Khufu

D. The people of Memphis

Q2. Fill in the blanks: The Step Pyramid is located in the ________ of Saqqara, near the ancient city of ________.

Q3. True or False: The Step Pyramid was originally built with a smooth exterior, similar to the pyramids of Giza.

Q4. What was the primary function of the complex surrounding the Step Pyramid?

A. It was a fortress.

B. It served as a ceremonial center.

C. It was used as a marketplace.

D. It functioned as a royal palace.

Q5. Fill in the blanks: The Step Pyramid was designed by _______, who is recognized as one of the first known architects.

Q6. True or False: The Step Pyramid's construction marked a significant shift in royal tomb architecture.

Q7. How many tiers does the Step Pyramid have?

A. Four

B. Six

C. Eight

D. Ten

Q8. Fill in the blanks: The Step Pyramid's subterranean chambers stretch over ________ kilometers in length.

Q9. True or False: The Step Pyramid was built during the 27th century BCE.

Q10. What does the layered design of the Step Pyramid represent?

A. The Nile Delta

B. The primordial mound of creation

C. The sun's rays

D. The path to the celestial realm

Answers:

A1. B. The Pharaoh Djoser

(Explanation: The passage clearly states that Pharaoh Djoser commissioned the construction of the Step Pyramid.)

A2. Necropolis, Memphis

(Explanation: The pyramid is situated in the necropolis, which is an ancient burial ground near Memphis.)

A3. False

(Explanation: The Step Pyramid is known for its tiered, rather than smooth, structure which was a departure from previous tomb designs.)

A4. B. It served as a ceremonial center.

(Explanation: The complex was used for rituals and ceremonies related to the afterlife, as mentioned in the passage.)

A5. Imhotep

(Explanation: Imhotep is credited with the design of the Step Pyramid, making him one of the earliest known architects.)

A6. True

(Explanation: The construction of the pyramid signaled a departure from the flat-roofed mastaba tombs, indicating a significant shift in architecture.)

A7. B. Six

(Explanation: The passage describes the pyramid as having a six-tiered structure.)

A8. 5.7

(Explanation: The subterranean chambers and tunnels beneath the pyramid extend over 5.7 kilometers.)

A9. True

(Explanation: The article specifies that the pyramid was constructed during the 27th century BCE.)

A10. B. The primordial mound of creation

(Explanation: The layers of the pyramid are said to represent the primordial mound from which life originated, according to ancient Egyptian beliefs.)

By studying and understanding the context of the Step Pyramid of Djoser, IELTS candidates can prepare to answer reading comprehension questions accurately. These practice questions encourage familiarity with the type of historical and factual information that may be encountered in the reading section of the exam.