Energy Transfer — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

MS-PS3-5

About This Reader

This NGSS-aligned science passage introduces middle school students to the concept of energy transfer, aligned to standard MS-PS3-5. It defines energy transfer as the movement of energy from one object or system to another and explains its importance in everyday life. Using clear examples such as conduction from a metal spoon in hot tea and kinetic energy in a soccer ball, the passage helps students understand how energy can move or change form. It also includes real-world connections, such as sunlight (radiation) and mechanical energy transfer, making abstract concepts more relatable. The passage supports reading comprehension in science and uses accurate vocabulary aligned with NGSS expectations. Designed for students in grades 6–8, it helps reinforce physical science concepts and builds foundational knowledge in energy systems. Great for science literacy development.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Energy transfer is the movement of energy from one object or system to another. It is an important concept in science because energy is required for all forms of motion, heat, sound, and light. When energy is transferred, it does not disappear. Instead, it changes form or moves from one place to another, allowing systems to function and interact.

One common way energy is transferred is through conduction, which occurs when two objects at different temperatures touch. For example, when a metal spoon sits in a hot cup of tea, heat moves from the hot liquid to the cooler spoon. This is because thermal energy always moves from warmer objects to cooler ones until they reach the same temperature.

Another example is mechanical energy transfer, which happens when forces cause motion. Imagine kicking a soccer ball. Your moving leg transfers energy to the ball, making it roll across the field. In this case, kinetic energy (the energy of motion) is passed from one object to another.

Energy can also be transferred through waves, like sound energy traveling through the air, or radiation, like sunlight warming your skin. These forms of energy don’t need direct contact to move from one place to another.

Understanding energy transfer helps scientists and engineers design efficient machines, improve insulation in homes, and even predict weather patterns. It’s a key idea in many areas of science, from physics to biology.

Fun Fact: A single lightning bolt can transfer up to one billion joules of energy — enough to power a 60-watt light bulb for six months!

What is energy transfer?

Creation of energyMovement of energyDestruction of energyAbsorption of light

What happens to energy during a transfer?

It disappearsIt increases foreverIt changes form or locationIt freezes in place

Which process involves heat moving between objects in contact?

RadiationReflectionConductionAbsorption

What kind of energy is passed when a soccer ball is kicked?

Sound energyChemical energyLight energyKinetic energy

What is a real-life example of radiation?

Metal spoon in hot teaSunlight warming skinPushing a chairBoiling water

What do conduction and mechanical transfer have in common?

Both involve wavesBoth use soundBoth move energyBoth create energy

What is the main idea of the passage?

Energy transfer only happens in machinesEnergy transfer helps scientists understand biologyEnergy transfer is how energy moves or changesEnergy transfer is dangerous

If a pan heats up on a stove, what type of energy transfer is happening?

ConductionRadiationSoundMagnetic