Gravity — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

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MS-PS2-4

About This Reader

This comprehensive science passage introduces middle school students to the concept of gravity, the invisible force that attracts objects with mass toward each other. Aligned to NGSS standard MS-PS2-4, the passage explores the mechanism of gravity, factors that affect gravitational strength—such as mass and distance—and real-world examples like falling objects, planetary orbits, and ocean tides. Students will also learn about free fall, acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²), and how gravity connects with larger scientific principles about forces and motion. The resource includes a challenging main passage, a simplified version for differentiated instruction, Spanish translations, a glossary, multiple-choice quiz, writing activities, and two graphic organizers. All materials are designed to support deeper conceptual understanding and scientific thinking. Audio integration is available for enhanced accessibility.

CONTENT PREVIEW

what-is-gravity-2 — Gravity pulls objects toward Earth's center and keeps the moon in orbit

Gravity is one of the fundamental forces in the universe. It is the invisible force that attracts all objects with mass toward each other. When you drop a ball, it falls to the ground because Earth's gravitational pull draws it downward. Gravity not only keeps our feet on the ground, but it also holds the atmosphere around our planet and keeps the Moon in orbit. Understanding gravity helps us explain the motion of objects on Earth and throughout the solar system.

How Gravity Works

Gravity acts between any two objects that have mass. The strength of this force depends on two factors: the mass of the objects and the distance between them. The greater the mass, the stronger the gravitational attraction. For example, Earth has more mass than a basketball, so it pulls objects with much more force. The farther apart two objects are, the weaker the gravitational force between them. This is why astronauts experience less gravity on the Moon, which is smaller and less massive than Earth. Scientists have measured the acceleration due to Earth's gravity as 9.8 meters per second squared (9.8 m/s²). This means that if you drop an object, it speeds up by 9.8 meters per second for every second it falls, as long as no other force (like air resistance) is acting on it. This rapid increase in speed is called free fall.

Gravity in Action: Examples from Nature and Space

Gravity is responsible for many everyday and cosmic phenomena. When you jump, gravity pulls you back down. Planets, including Earth, orbit the Sun because of its strong gravitational force. The Moon's gravity causes the ocean tides on Earth by pulling on the water as the Moon moves around our planet. Scientists use mathematical equations, like Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation, to predict how gravity affects objects. These relationships help engineers design rockets that can escape Earth's gravity and explore other planets. Gravity is also what makes the solar system stable, keeping planets in regular orbits for billions of years.

Connections and Broader Implications

Gravity is not limited to Earth. It is a universal force that affects all matter in the universe, from tiny grains of sand to massive stars and galaxies. Gravity shapes the structure of the universe by pulling matter together to form planets, stars, and galaxies. It is also involved in the formation of black holes, where gravity is so strong that not even light can escape. Understanding gravity has led to advances in technology, such as satellite navigation and space exploration. By studying gravity, scientists continue to learn about the origins and fate of our universe.

Interesting Fact:
Without gravity, the air and water on Earth would drift away into space, making life as we know it impossible.

What is gravity?

A force that attracts objects with mass toward each other.A push that keeps planets moving away from the Sun.A type of energy that creates light.The process of objects gaining mass over time.

Which two factors affect the strength of gravitational force?

Mass and distance between objects.Temperature and color.Shape and speed.Volume and texture.

What is the acceleration due to gravity on Earth?

9.8 meters per second squared.5 meters per second squared.20 meters per second squared.1 meter per second squared.

What causes ocean tides on Earth?

The gravitational pull of the Moon.The Earth's rotation only.Wind and rain.The Sun's heat.

What is free fall?

When an object falls with only gravity acting on it.When an object floats in water.When an object stops moving.When air pushes an object up.

In the passage, what does the term 'mass' mean?

The amount of matter in an object.How fast an object moves.The color of an object.The shape of an object.

Why do astronauts feel lighter on the Moon?

Because the Moon is less massive than Earth and has weaker gravity.Because there is no air on the Moon.Because the Moon is closer to the Sun.Because the Moon is made of rocks.

Which of the following is a result of gravity in space?

Planets orbiting the Sun.The formation of clouds.Volcano eruptions.Sound waves traveling.

True or False: Gravity only exists on Earth.

TrueFalse

True or False: Without gravity, the air and water on Earth would stay in place.

TrueFalse

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

Reading Features:

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Reading Passage

Engaging fiction or nonfiction text

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Comprehension Quiz

Auto-graded questions

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Instant Feedback

Immediate results and scoring

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Printable Version

Download for offline reading

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Read Aloud

Voice-over with word highlighting