Understanding Earth's Atmosphere and Climate — Reading Comprehension

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This engaging Grade 6-8 science passage introduces students to Earth's atmosphere and climate, covering key concepts such as the layers of the atmosphere, the greenhouse effect, and the difference between weather and climate. Aligned with NGSS standards, the passage uses clear language and defines important vocabulary terms, helping students build scientific literacy. Real-world examples show how these concepts impact daily life, such as how greenhouse gases affect global temperatures. An interesting fact section sparks curiosity, and a Spanish translation ensures accessibility. The resource features an interactive glossary, multiple-choice quiz, and writing activities to deepen understanding and encourage critical thinking. Audio integration supports diverse learners, making this passage a comprehensive tool for science classrooms focused on Earth and environmental science.

CONTENT PREVIEW

The atmosphere is the layer of gases that surrounds Earth. It protects us from the Sun’s harmful rays and helps keep our planet warm enough for life. The atmosphere is made up of several layers, each with different characteristics. The main gases in our atmosphere are nitrogen (about 78%), oxygen (about 21%), and small amounts of other gases like carbon dioxide and water vapor.

The atmosphere is divided into layers. The closest layer to Earth is the troposphere, where all weather happens. Above that is the stratosphere, which contains the ozone layer. The ozone layer protects living things by absorbing most of the Sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

One important process in the atmosphere is the greenhouse effect. Certain gases, called greenhouse gases, trap heat from the Sun and keep the planet warm, like a blanket. Without the greenhouse effect, Earth would be too cold for most living things. However, when people burn fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas, it releases extra greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide. This causes the planet to get warmer, which is called global warming.

It’s important to know the difference between weather and climate. Weather is the daily condition of the air, like rain, sun, wind, or temperature. Climate is the average weather in a place over a long time, usually 30 years or more. For example, a desert has a dry climate, while a rainforest has a wet climate.

Changes in the atmosphere and climate can affect life on Earth. For example, rising global temperatures can cause sea levels to rise and weather patterns to change. Scientists study the atmosphere to predict weather, understand climate change, and help people prepare for natural disasters.

Interesting Fact: The highest clouds in the atmosphere, called noctilucent clouds, form more than 80 kilometers above Earth’s surface!

What gas makes up most of the atmosphere?

NitrogenOxygenCarbon dioxideWater vapor

What happens in the troposphere?

WeatherOzone formationAurorasNoctilucent clouds

What does the ozone layer protect us from?

Ultraviolet radiationRainWindGreenhouse gases

Burning fossil fuels increases what gas?

Carbon dioxideNitrogenOxygenOzone

How does the greenhouse effect help Earth?

Keeps the planet warmCreates rainBlocks sunlightRemoves oxygen

Which is true about climate?