How Do We Measure Global Temperature Change? — Reading Comprehension

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This Grade 6-8 science passage explores the important question: How do we measure global temperature change? Students learn about the science behind measuring Earth's temperature, including the use of thermometers, weather stations, satellites, and ocean buoys. The passage explains key terms such as 'average temperature,' 'climate,' and 'data,' helping students understand how scientists track temperature changes over time. Real-world examples, such as the use of satellites and how this data informs our understanding of climate change, are included. The passage aligns with NGSS standards and is designed for middle school readers, using accessible language and bolded glossary terms for easy reference. The resource features a Spanish translation, a glossary of important vocabulary, multiple-choice comprehension questions, and writing prompts encouraging critical thinking and connections to everyday life. Audio integration is available to support diverse learners. This resource is ideal for students and teachers exploring Earth science, climate, and scientific measurement.

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Global temperature change spiral 2020 100MPx.gif
Source: Wikimedia Commons - Ed Hawkins, a climate scientist in the National Centre for Atmospheric Science at the University of Reading.

Global temperature is the average temperature of the Earth's surface. Scientists measure global temperature to understand changes in our climate over time. Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperature and weather patterns. To know if the Earth is getting warmer or cooler, scientists need accurate measurements from all around the planet.

One common tool is the thermometer. Thermometers measure the air temperature at specific places. Weather stations, found in cities, forests, deserts, and mountains, use thermometers to report daily temperatures. But since Earth is so large, it would be impossible to measure every spot with a thermometer alone.

To get a complete picture, scientists use different methods. Weather stations on land and buoys in the ocean automatically record temperatures and send their data to scientists. This data tells us about temperatures on land and in the sea, which both affect global climate.

Another important tool is the satellite. Satellites orbit the Earth and use sensors to measure temperatures from space. They can collect data from places that are hard to reach, like the middle of the ocean or the North and South Poles. Satellites help create a global map of temperatures and make it easier to see patterns and trends over time.

Scientists collect and organize all this information as data. Using powerful computers, they calculate the average temperature for the whole planet. By comparing temperatures from year to year, scientists can see if Earth’s temperature is rising, falling, or staying the same. This helps them understand how human activities, like burning fossil fuels, may cause global temperatures to increase.

Measuring global temperature change is important because it helps us make decisions to protect the environment. For example, if data shows that temperatures are rising, governments and communities can take action to reduce pollution or use cleaner energy sources. Accurate temperature measurements also help predict extreme weather, like heat waves or cold spells, which can protect people and animals.

Interesting Fact: Scientists use data from more than 10,000 weather stations, ocean buoys, and satellites to measure global temperature changes every single day!

What does a thermometer measure?

Air temperatureRainfallWind speedCloud cover

What is a buoy used for?

Measuring ocean temperatureMeasuring earthquakesMeasuring soilMeasuring plants

What does 'global temperature' mean?

Average temperature of Earth's surfaceTemperature in one cityTemperature in the oceanHighest temperature on Earth

Why do scientists use satellites?

To measure temperature globallyTo count animalsTo plant treesTo make rain

How does data help scientists?

Shows temperature trendsGrows plantsBuilds housesStops rain

What can happen if temperatures rise?

More extreme weatherLess sunFewer animalsMore trees