How Climate Affects Life Around the World — Reading Comprehension

Climate is one of the most important factors that shape life on Earth. Different climate zones create different environments, and these conditions affect everything from the plants that grow to the animals that live there—and even how people build homes and grow food. Scientists use the Köppen Climate Classification System to help understand and describe these zones.

In tropical climates (A), the weather is hot and usually wet all year. These areas include rainforests in countries like Brazil and Indonesia. The heat and moisture support tall trees, vines, colorful birds, insects, and animals like monkeys and frogs. People in tropical climates wear light clothing and often build homes with open spaces to stay cool.

Dry climates (B) include deserts and grasslands. These areas get very little rain. Places like the Sahara Desert in Africa or parts of western Australia are dry for most of the year. Cacti, snakes, and camels have special features that help them survive here. People often live near water sources and use special farming methods to grow crops.

Temperate climates (C) are mild with seasons. Summers are warm, and winters are cooler, but not too cold. Many parts of the U.S., Europe, and East Asia fall into this category. These areas are good for growing crops like wheat, apples, and grapes. People wear different clothes for each season and build houses to keep warm in winter and cool in summer.

In continental climates (D), winters are cold and snowy, and summers can be hot. These climates are found farther from the equator in places like Russia or Canada. Animals grow thick fur, and people build insulated homes to stay warm in freezing temperatures.

Polar climates (E) are the coldest. Found near the North and South Poles, these regions have ice and snow most of the year. Only a few plants grow here, and animals like polar bears and penguins have thick layers of fat and fur. People who live here use special clothing and heating to survive.

Fun Fact: Penguins live in polar climates in the Southern Hemisphere, while polar bears live in the Arctic in the north!

Which climate zone is hot and rainy all year?

What makes dry climates different from others?

Which animal is suited for the polar climate?

Where are continental climates usually found?

Why do people in temperate climates build homes for different seasons?

What is one reason animals in dry climates survive well there?

What is the main idea of the passage?

If a place becomes drier over time, which climate type might it shift toward?