Introducing KNOVA — A free reading app with curriculum-aligned passages on History & Science for Grades 3-8Learn More →

How Do Solar Panels Work? — Reading Comprehension

No ratings yet

Premium Resource

Grades

Standards

MS-ESS3-1

Rate this resource

Send Feedback / Report an Issue

About This Reader

This middle school reading passage explains how solar panels work by turning sunlight into electricity. The passage describes how solar cells made from silicon absorb sunlight and create direct current (DC), which is then converted into alternating current (AC) using an inverter. Students will explore where solar panels are used, such as on rooftops and in solar farms, and learn about their environmental benefits. This passage supports NGSS standard MS-ESS3-1 and helps students understand the role of renewable energy in reducing pollution and conserving natural resources. With vocabulary support, real-world examples, and simple explanations, it builds science literacy and awareness of sustainable solutions.

CONTENT PREVIEW

is a form of renewable energy that comes from the movement of air in the atmosphere. When the wind blows, it carries kinetic energy, which can be captured and converted into electrical energy using special machines called wind turbines. Wind energy is important because it provides a clean and sustainable way to power homes, schools, and businesses without polluting the air.

Wind turbines have large blades that spin when the wind blows. These spinning blades turn a shaft connected to a generator, which produces electricity. The stronger the wind, the faster the blades turn, and the more electricity is generated. Wind energy works best in places that have strong and steady winds, such as open plains, coastal areas, and hilltops.

One benefit of wind energy is that it does not produce greenhouse gases, unlike fossil fuels such as coal or oil. This helps reduce the effects of climate change. Wind power is also renewable, meaning it won’t run out as long as the wind keeps blowing. In many places, wind farms—groups of wind turbines—provide a significant portion of electricity.

For example, Texas and Iowa are two U.S. states that use a lot of wind energy. In some areas, wind power supplies more than 40% of the electricity used by homes and businesses. Wind energy is also growing worldwide, helping countries reduce their dependence on fossil fuels.

Wind energy is not perfect. It can only be produced when the wind is blowing, and some people think wind turbines are noisy or change the look of the landscape. However, engineers are always working to improve turbine designs and find better places to build wind farms.

Wind energy is a powerful example of how we can use natural forces to meet our energy needs while protecting the planet. It is a key part of the transition to sustainable energy sources.

Fun Fact: The largest wind turbine in the world has blades longer than a football field and can power more than 4,000 homes!

What is wind energy?

Energy from waterEnergy from moving airEnergy from the sunEnergy from fire

What part of a wind turbine captures the wind?

GeneratorBaseBladesTower

Why is wind energy considered renewable?

It comes from fuelIt costs lessThe wind never runs outIt is made by people

What does a generator in a wind turbine do?

Spins the bladesCreates noiseProduces electricityMakes wind

Why is wind energy better for the environment than fossil fuels?

It is louderIt uses coalIt does not polluteIt creates smoke

What is one disadvantage of wind energy?