Three original animals paragraphs, 133 words in total, at an average US reading grade of 6.0. Each takes about 72 seconds at 40 WPM.
About these paragraphs
These paragraphs about wildlife facts for every age were written by the Typeri team for typing practice. They use real sentences with capital letters, commas and numbers, so they train the same skills as everyday writing. Facts were checked against standard references.
The paragraphs
Paragraph 1
The cheetah is the fastest land animal, able to reach about seventy miles per hour in short bursts. It cannot keep that pace for long, though. Most chases last less than a minute, so a cheetah creeps as close as it can before it starts to run.
Paragraph 2
Bald eagles build some of the largest nests of any bird. A pair often returns to the same nest year after year, adding fresh sticks each season. Over time a nest can grow to several feet across and weigh hundreds of pounds.
Paragraph 3
Octopuses are remarkably smart. They can solve puzzles, open jars and squeeze through any gap larger than their beak. Special skin cells let them change color and texture in a fraction of a second, which helps them hide from predators and surprise their prey.
Length and reading level
| Paragraph | Words | Characters | Reading grade | Time at 40 WPM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 47 | 243 | 5.8 | 73 sec |
| 2 | 42 | 223 | 5.3 | 67 sec |
| 3 | 44 | 259 | 6.8 | 78 sec |
Reading grade is the Flesch-Kincaid grade level, an estimate of the US school grade that can read the text comfortably. Time assumes the average adult copy speed of about 40 WPM. At the 52 WPM study average, each paragraph takes about a quarter less time.
How to practice with paragraphs
- Type one paragraph without stopping. Fix mistakes with Backspace, but keep going.
- Check accuracy first. Aim for 95% or higher before chasing speed.
- Repeat the same paragraph two or three times. Familiar text lets you focus on rhythm and finger movement.
- Switch to a new topic once you can finish a paragraph comfortably above your normal speed.
For teachers and parents
Every paragraph here is free to use in class. Students can take the test above on any device, and results stay private on their own device. Pair paragraphs with the typing lessons for structured practice, and use the typing certificate as a reward for a personal best.
More paragraph topics
Frequently asked questions
Can I print these animals typing paragraphs?
Yes. They are free for personal and classroom use. Use your browser's print option, and the test and ads are hidden on the printed page.
What reading level are they?
The average Flesch-Kincaid grade level is 6.0, which suits most middle school, high school and adult typists.