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Galileo Galilei — Reading Comprehension

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This reading passage explores the life, discoveries, and legacy of Galileo Galilei, a central figure in Renaissance science. Students will learn how Galileo challenged traditional beliefs through direct observation and experimentation, including his improvements to the telescope and his support for the heliocentric model. The passage discusses Galileo’s use of the scientific method, his conflict with the Catholic Church, and the broader impact of his work on the development of modern physics. Primary sources, such as Galileo’s own writings and his trial records, are referenced to provide historical evidence. The passage is aligned with CA HSS 7.10 and CCSS RI.6.3, supporting analysis of primary sources, cause-and-effect, and change over time. Included are read aloud audio and a Spanish translation for accessibility.

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Galileo moon phases — Phases of the moon by Galileo Galilei / Wikimedia Commons

Galileo Galilei was an Italian scientist whose work transformed science during the Renaissance. Born in Pisa in 1564, Galileo questioned old beliefs by using careful observations and experiments. He is remembered for his contributions to astronomy, physics, and the scientific method, as well as for his famous conflict with the Catholic Church.

Galileo’s most important tool was the telescope, which he improved in 1609 after learning about a similar device from the Netherlands. With this instrument, he observed the moons of Jupiter, the rough surface of the Moon, and the phases of Venus. These findings, recorded in his book Sidereus Nuncius (1610), challenged the ancient idea that everything in the sky revolved around the Earth. Instead, Galileo supported the heliocentric model, which placed the Sun at the center of the solar system, first described by Copernicus in 1543. Galileo’s detailed drawings and notes provided strong evidence for this new understanding of the universe.

Galileo used the scientific method by asking questions, making hypotheses, testing them through experiments, and recording his results. For example, in Pisa, he is said to have dropped spheres of different weights from the Leaning Tower to show that they fell at the same rate, contradicting what Aristotle taught. In his book Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World Systems (1632), Galileo compared the Earth-centered and Sun-centered models, using arguments and evidence to persuade readers. His work laid the foundations for modern physics, especially the study of motion and gravity.

Galileo’s discoveries led to conflict with powerful church leaders, who believed the heliocentric model went against the Bible. In 1633, Galileo was put on trial by the Inquisition and forced to recant his views. He spent the rest of his life under house arrest. Despite this, Galileo continued to write and study, and his ideas eventually changed how people understood the natural world. Today, his methods and findings are seen as key steps in the development of science as we know it.

The story of Galileo Galilei shows how questioning old ideas and using evidence can transform knowledge. His life connects to larger themes in world history, such as the power of observation, the struggle between science and authority, and the lasting impact of the Renaissance.

Interesting Fact: Even under house arrest, Galileo invented a pendulum clock and continued to correspond with other scientists in Europe.

Where was Galileo born?

PisaFlorenceVeniceRome

What tool did Galileo improve in 1609?

TelescopeMicroscopeCompassBarometer

Who put Galileo on trial in 1633?

InquisitionRoyal SocietySenateMerchants

Why did Galileo’s findings challenge old beliefs?

Showed Sun at centerProved Earth was flatSupported old ideasDenied gravity

What is the heliocentric model?

Sun at centerEarth at centerMoon at centerJupiter at center

How did Galileo collect evidence?