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What Is a Hydroelectric Power Plant? — Reading Comprehension

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This middle school science passage explains how hydroelectric power plants generate electricity using the energy of moving water. The passage describes key components such as dams, reservoirs, turbines, and generators, and explains how they work together to produce clean and renewable electricity. Students learn about the advantages of hydroelectric power—like low pollution and steady energy—and challenges such as habitat disruption. Aligned with NGSS standard MS-ESS3-1, the passage builds science comprehension and vocabulary while connecting physical science to environmental awareness and real-world applications.

CONTENT PREVIEW

A hydroelectric power plant is a place where electricity is made using moving water. This type of power plant turns the energy from flowing or falling water into electrical energy. It is a clean and

source because it uses water from nature, which is always being replaced by rain and rivers.

The process begins with a dam built across a river. The dam blocks the flow of water and creates a reservoir, which is like a large lake. When the power plant needs to make electricity, water is released from the reservoir. The water flows through pipes inside the dam and spins a machine called a turbine.

The turbine is connected to a generator. When the turbine spins, it turns the generator, which makes electricity. This electricity travels through power lines to homes, schools, and businesses.

Hydroelectric power plants are used around the world. They are especially useful in places with large rivers or lots of rainfall. One of the biggest hydroelectric power plants is the Three Gorges Dam in China. In the United States, the Hoover Dam is a well-known example.

Hydroelectric power has many advantages. It does not create air pollution, and it produces a steady supply of energy. However, building dams can also cause problems. They can change the natural flow of rivers, affect fish habitats, and flood nearby land.

Even with these challenges, hydroelectric power plants are an important way to make electricity without using fossil fuels. They show how we can use natural forces like water to meet our energy needs and protect the planet.

Fun Fact: The energy from just one large hydroelectric power plant can power over a million homes!

What does a hydroelectric power plant use to make electricity?

WindSunlightMoving waterNatural gas

What holds back river water to create a reservoir?

TurbineGeneratorDamPipe

What does the turbine do in a hydroelectric power plant?

Stores energySpins from flowing waterCleans the riverStops pollution

What machine produces electricity in a hydroelectric plant?

MotorGeneratorFanFilter

What is one benefit of hydroelectric power?

It causes air pollutionIt runs on oilIt uses renewable waterIt works only at night

What is one problem caused by dams?