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Causes and Effects of Glacial Retreat — Reading Comprehension

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This engaging, audio-integrated reading passage, 'Causes and Effects of Glacial Retreat,' is designed for Grade 6 students. It explores the fascinating science behind why glaciers are shrinking and the significant impacts this has on our planet, including rising sea levels and changes in ecosystems. The passage defines key terms like 'glacier' and 'greenhouse gases' in simple language. It directly aligns with NGSS MS-ESS3-5, encouraging students to understand the factors contributing to global temperature increases over the past century. Through this passage, students will gain insight into climate change, its causes, and its environmental consequences, making complex scientific concepts accessible and relevant. The passage is accompanied by comprehension activities, a glossary, and short answer questions.

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Wide illustration of glaciers melting, factories emitting gases, sea rise, water loss, polar bear stranded. — Glacial retreat from warming causes sea level rise, water loss, and endangered wildlife.

Imagine vast rivers of ice, slowly carving through mountains over thousands of years. These are glaciers, immense bodies of ice that form when snow accumulates over many years, compacting and recrystallizing. For centuries, glaciers have been a natural part of Earth’s landscape, storing much of the world's freshwater in their frozen forms. But today, these powerful ice formations are shrinking at an alarming rate, a process known as glacial retreat.

What is causing this rapid change? The main culprit is a rise in global temperatures, often called global warming. Our planet’s average temperature has been steadily increasing, especially over the last century. Scientists have gathered strong evidence showing a direct link between human activities and this warming trend. When we burn fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas for energy, we release gases into the atmosphere. These are known as greenhouse gases, and they trap heat, much like the glass walls of a greenhouse trap warmth inside. This trapped heat leads to warmer air and ocean temperatures, which then cause glaciers and ice sheets to melt faster.

The effects of glacial retreat are far-reaching and impact our entire planet. One significant consequence is the rise in sea level. As glaciers melt, the water flows into oceans, causing global sea levels to creep higher. This can threaten coastal communities, leading to more frequent flooding and erosion of shorelines. Another important effect is on freshwater supplies. Many communities around the world rely on seasonal meltwater from glaciers for drinking water and irrigation. As glaciers disappear, these crucial water sources could diminish, leading to water shortages. Additionally, glacial retreat impacts ecosystems, affecting plants and animals that depend on glacial environments, such as polar bears and certain fish species. Understanding these changes helps us recognize the urgency of addressing global warming.

Interesting Fact: If all the ice on Earth's glaciers and ice sheets were to melt, global sea levels would rise by about 230 feet (70 meters), enough to submerge many major cities worldwide.

What is glacial retreat?

Glaciers growing largerGlaciers staying the sameGlaciers shrinking rapidlyGlaciers moving faster

What do scientists link to global warming?

Human activitiesVolcanic eruptionsMoon phasesAnimal migrations

Burning fossil fuels releases what?

OxygenWater vaporGreenhouse gasesNitrogen

What traps heat like a greenhouse?

Ozone layerGreenhouse gasesCloudsSolar panels

How does glacial melt affect sea level?

It lowers sea levelIt raises sea levelIt has no effectIt changes ocean color

What is a consequence of diminishing freshwater supplies?

More rainfallWater shortagesCleaner airStronger winds