Earth's Place in the Universe — Reading Comprehension

Earth is our home, and it is part of something much bigger. Earth is one of eight planets in our solar system. The Sun is at the center of the solar system, and Earth moves around it in a path called an orbit. As Earth travels around the Sun, it also spins on its axis, which gives us day and night.

In the daytime, the Sun appears bright in the sky because our side of Earth is facing the Sun. At night, our side of Earth faces away from the Sun, and we see the dark sky with the Moon and stars. These changes happen in a predictable pattern, which helps us know when it will be day or night.

Earth is a very special planet. It has air to breathe, water to drink, and soil for plants to grow. These things make life possible on Earth. Other planets do not have the same conditions, so they cannot support life the way Earth can.

People have always watched the sky to learn about Earth’s place in the universe. Long ago, scientists used the patterns of the Sun, Moon, and stars to tell time, make calendars, and know when to plant crops. Today, we use telescopes to look even farther into space to discover more about the universe.

Knowing Earth’s place in the universe helps us understand how special our planet is and why we need to take care of it. From its path around the Sun to its ability to support life, Earth is truly an amazing part of our solar system.

Fun Fact: Earth is about 93 million miles away from the Sun — that’s why it is not too hot or too cold!

What is at the center of our solar system?

How many planets are in our solar system?

What path does Earth follow around the Sun?

Why does Earth have day and night?

Which of these makes Earth special?

What do scientists use to see far into space?

What is the main idea of the passage?

If a person looks at the stars to know when to plant crops, what are they using?