Climate Change Impact on Extreme Weather Events — Reading Comprehension

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This Grade 6-8 science passage, aligned to NGSS standards, explores the impact of climate change on extreme weather events. Students will learn how global warming, caused by increased greenhouse gases, leads to more frequent and intense weather events such as hurricanes, floods, droughts, and heatwaves. The passage defines key science vocabulary, uses real-world examples, and ends with an interesting science fact. Activities include a reading comprehension quiz, writing prompts that encourage critical thinking, and a bilingual (Spanish) version for accessibility. This resource integrates audio for enhanced accessibility and supports students in understanding cause and effect in nature, making connections to everyday life, and applying scientific concepts. Perfect for classroom or independent study, this engaging passage builds science literacy while meeting Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) requirements.

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2019 extreme weather events.png
Source: Wikimedia Commons - Wcalvin

Climate change refers to long-term changes in the Earth's average weather patterns. One main cause of climate change is the increase in greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, causing the planet to get warmer. This process is called global warming.

As global temperatures rise, the Earth's climate becomes less stable. This leads to more extreme weather events. Extreme weather means severe or unusual weather, such as strong hurricanes, heavy rainstorms, long droughts, and heatwaves. These events can damage homes, destroy crops, and even put people's lives at risk.

For example, warmer ocean water gives more energy to storms, making hurricanes stronger and wetter. In 2017, Hurricane Harvey brought record-breaking rainfall to Texas and caused massive flooding. Heatwaves, which are long periods of very hot weather, are also becoming more common. In recent years, places like Europe and Australia have experienced record-high temperatures, which led to wildfires and health problems for thousands of people.

Droughts happen when an area gets much less rain than usual for a long time. As temperatures rise, water evaporates faster, making droughts worse. This hurts farming and can lead to food shortages. On the other hand, more water in the air from evaporation can cause heavier rainstorms and floods in other areas.

Scientists use data from satellites, weather stations, and computer models to study how climate change affects weather patterns. They have found that extreme weather events are happening more often and are more severe than in the past. This evidence helps scientists predict future weather and advise communities on how to prepare.

People can help slow down climate change by using less energy, driving less, recycling, and planting trees. These actions reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect our planet for future generations.

Interesting Fact: The number of weather-related disasters worldwide has more than doubled since the 1980s, mostly due to climate change!

What causes global warming?

Greenhouse gases trap heatLess sunlightMore rainColder oceans

Which is an example of extreme weather?

DroughtMild breezeCloudy dayMorning dew

What do scientists use to study weather?

Data from satellitesJust their eyesOnly old booksOnly TV news

Why are hurricanes stronger now?

Warmer ocean waterColder airLess sunlightMore trees

What happens with more evaporation?

Heavier rainstormsLess floodingColder weatherShorter summers

How can people help slow climate change?