Factors That Affect Climate: Reading Passages for Grades 5–8
Why Do Climates Vary Across the Globe?
From sweltering deserts to icy tundras, Earth’s climates are shaped by invisible natural forces. For middle schoolers curious about the “why” behind weather patterns, our reading passages break down the five key factors that affect climate—latitude, water, elevation, mountains, and vegetation—into bite-sized, relatable lessons. Aligned with NGSS Earth and Space Science Standards (MS-ESS2-5, MS-ESS2-6), these resources blend science and literacy, empowering students to decode the planet’s climate puzzle while boosting reading comprehension.
Aligned with Earth and Space Science → Weather and Climate standards, these passages are perfect for classroom use, homework, or enrichment. Read on to discover how each key factor plays a role in shaping climate.
🌍 Latitude: A Major Factor That Affects Climate
Latitude influences climate by affecting the intensity and duration of sunlight in different parts of the world. This passage helps students understand why tropical areas are hot and humid, polar zones are cold and dry, and temperate regions have changing seasons.
👉 Click here to read the passage on how latitude affects climate.
🌊 Large Bodies of Water and Climate: How Oceans and Lakes Shape Weather
Students learn how oceans, seas, and lakes moderate temperatures, increase humidity, and influence precipitation. This passage introduces how water acts as a climate buffer—explaining concepts like coastal mildness and ocean currents such as the Gulf Stream.
👉 Click here to read the passage on how large bodies of water influence climate.
🏔 Elevation and Climate: How Height Above Sea Level Shapes Weather
Higher elevations mean lower temperatures and unique weather conditions. This passage explains how elevation affects climate through decreasing temperature (lapse rate), solar radiation, and precipitation changes, including the rain shadow effect.
👉 Click here to read the passage on how elevation shapes climate and weather.
⛰ Mountain Ranges and Climate: How Mountains Shape Weather Patterns
Mountains can block wind, create rain shadows, and form microclimates. Students will discover how major mountain ranges influence climate in surrounding regions through wind patterns and precipitation.
👉 Click here to read the passage on how mountain ranges impact climate patterns.
🌿 Vegetation: How Plants Shape Weather and the Environment
Forests and vegetation affect climate by regulating temperature, increasing humidity, and supporting rainfall. This passage helps students understand the role of plant life in the water cycle, erosion control, and environmental stability.
👉 Click here to read the passage on how vegetation plays a role in climate and weather.
These passages are ideal for introducing the main idea of how natural systems affect climate, with built-in vocabulary support and comprehension questions to reinforce learning. Whether you’re preparing a unit on climate factors or looking for high-quality science reading material, these resources will spark curiosity and deepen understanding.
Equip your students to understand the planet—one climate factor at a time. 🌎✨
Check out our full collection of science reading passages designed to support the Next Generation Science Standards.
[Explore more NGSS-aligned passages »]
