This learning resource is available in interactive and printable formats. The interactive worksheet can be played online and assigned to students. The Printable PDF version can be downloaded and printed for completion by hand.
This engaging science reading passage introduces Grade 4 and 5 students to Earth, our home planet. Aligned with NGSS standards, the passage covers Earth’s atmosphere, landforms, water cycle, and the unique conditions that make life possible. Key vocabulary terms are defined in context, and real-world examples help students connect science concepts to daily life. The resource includes a glossary for key terms, a Spanish translation of the passage, a multiple-choice comprehension quiz, and writing activities that encourage deeper thinking and analysis. The content is audio integrated, making it accessible for different learners. This lesson supports science literacy, vocabulary building, and critical thinking, and is perfect for classroom or home use. Keywords: Earth, atmosphere, biosphere, water cycle, NGSS, Grade 4, Grade 5, science reading.
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Earth is the third planet from the Sun in our solar system. It is the only planet we know that supports life. Earth has everything living creatures need, such as air, water, and land.
The thin layer of gases that surrounds Earth is called the atmosphere. The atmosphere contains air, which is a mix of gases like oxygen and nitrogen. Oxygen is important because people and animals need it to breathe. The atmosphere also protects us from the Sun’s harmful rays and helps keep Earth warm.
Most of Earth’s surface is covered by water. Water is found in oceans, lakes, rivers, and even underground. Water is always moving around Earth in a process called the water cycle. The water cycle has three main parts: evaporation (when water turns into vapor and rises into the air), condensation (when vapor cools and forms clouds), and precipitation (when water falls as rain, snow, or hail). This cycle provides water for plants, animals, and people.
Earth’s surface is made up of many different landforms, such as mountains, valleys, plains, and deserts. Landforms shape where people live and what plants and animals can grow in an area. For example, forests grow where there is plenty of rain, while deserts have very little water.
The part of Earth where all living things exist is called the biosphere. The biosphere includes land, water, and air. All living things, from tiny insects to huge whales, are part of the biosphere. People depend on Earth’s resources for food, water, and shelter. It is important to take care of our planet so that it can continue to support life.
Interesting Fact: The deepest place on Earth is the Mariana Trench in the Pacific Ocean. It is deeper than Mount Everest is tall!
What is the third planet from the Sun?
EarthMarsVenusJupiter
What covers most of Earth's surface?
WaterMountainsDesertsForests
What do we call the layer of gases around Earth?
AtmosphereBiosphereLandformsOzone
Why is the atmosphere important?
It protects us and gives airIt makes water saltyIt forms landIt creates gravity
What happens after evaporation in the water cycle?
CondensationPrecipitationMeltingFreezing
Forests grow best in which areas?
Rainy placesDry desertsHigh mountainsCold poles
Earth is the only planet with life. True or false?
TrueFalse
What does 'biosphere' mean?
Where all living things existA mountainA type of landA kind of gas
Perfect For:
👩🏫 Teachers
• Reading comprehension practice
• Auto-graded assessments
• Literacy skill development
👨👩👧👦 Parents
• Reading practice at home
• Comprehension improvement
• Educational reading time
🏠 Homeschoolers
• Reading curriculum support
• Independent reading practice
• Progress monitoring
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