This Grade 4-5 science passage, aligned with NGSS standards, explores the Sun as our closest star. Students learn about the Sun's structure, its role in providing energy, and how it affects life on Earth. The passage defines key vocabulary terms such as star, solar energy, and nuclear fusion, using clear explanations and real-world examples. Activities include a multiple-choice quiz and writing tasks that encourage deeper understanding and application of scientific concepts. The resource also features a Spanish translation for bilingual support and an integrated glossary to help students build science vocabulary. Audio integration is available for students who benefit from listening as well as reading. This resource supports science literacy, vocabulary development, and comprehension skills, making it ideal for classroom or home learning.
Written by Workybooks TeamPublished by Workybooks
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There May Be a “Super-Earth” Orbiting the Nearest Star to the Sun.
The Sun is the closest star to Earth. It is a huge ball of hot, glowing gases. The Sun looks much bigger and brighter than other stars because it is much closer to us. In fact, the Sun is about 93 million miles from Earth, while other stars are much farther away.
The Sun is made mostly of hydrogen and helium. Deep inside the Sun, a process called nuclear fusion happens. Nuclear fusion is when tiny atoms join together to make bigger atoms, releasing a large amount of energy and heat. This energy travels through space as sunlight and solar energy.
Solar energy from the Sun is very important. It warms our planet and makes life possible. Plants use sunlight to make their own food through a process called photosynthesis. Without the Sun, plants would not grow, and animals, including humans, would not have food to eat.
The Sun also causes seasons and weather on Earth. As the Earth moves around the Sun, different parts of our planet get different amounts of sunlight. This is why we have summer, winter, spring, and fall. The Sun’s heat also makes water evaporate, forming clouds and rain.
Besides providing light and warmth, the Sun helps people in many ways. For example, solar panels can capture sunlight and turn it into electricity. This is called solar power. Using solar power helps us save other resources and protect the environment.
Interesting Fact: The Sun is so big that about 1.3 million Earths could fit inside it!
What is the Sun mostly made of?
Hydrogen and heliumOxygen and waterIron and copperRock and dust
How far is the Sun from Earth?
93 million miles1,000 miles5 million miles1 million miles