What is Hydroelectric Power — Reading Comprehension

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This reading passage introduces middle school students to hydroelectric power, a form of renewable energy created by moving water. The passage explains how dams are built to control river flow, creating reservoirs that send water through turbines and generators to produce electricity. Students will learn the benefits of this clean energy source, such as low emissions and reliable power, along with the environmental challenges like habitat changes. This passage supports the NGSS standard MS-ESS3-1 and promotes science literacy and comprehension. It includes key vocabulary, real-world examples like the Three Gorges Dam, and reinforces the importance of sustainable energy sources in physical and environmental science education.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Hydroelectric power is energy made by moving water. It is a type of renewable energy, which means it can be used again and again without running out. This kind of energy is important because it does not pollute the air or cause harm to the environment like some fossil fuels do.

Hydroelectric power is made using a dam, which is a large wall built across a river. When water builds up behind the dam, it creates a reservoir. The water from this reservoir is released in a controlled way through the dam. As the water flows down, it passes through turbines. These turbines spin like giant fans. The spinning motion turns a machine called a generator, which produces electricity.

Hydroelectric dams are powerful and can create large amounts of electricity. In fact, they are one of the most commonly used sources of renewable energy in the world. Countries like Canada, Brazil, and China use hydroelectric power to provide electricity to millions of homes and businesses.

One major benefit of hydroelectric power is that it produces no greenhouse gases. It also provides a steady, reliable source of electricity. However, building dams can also have negative effects. Dams can change river habitats, block fish migration, and sometimes cause flooding in nearby areas. Scientists and engineers work to reduce these problems while still using this clean energy source.

Hydroelectric power shows how nature can help us meet our energy needs in a safe and sustainable way. By using the force of water, we can generate electricity without using up Earth’s resources.

Fun Fact: The largest hydroelectric dam in the world, the Three Gorges Dam in China, can produce enough electricity to power over 80 million light bulbs at once!

What is hydroelectric power made from?

SunlightWindMoving waterFossil fuels

What does water spin inside the dam to make electricity?

BladesWiresTurbinesFans

What machine produces electricity in a hydroelectric dam?

MotorLight bulbGeneratorEngine

What is built across a river to make hydroelectric power?

A tunnelA bridgeA damA wall

What is one advantage of hydroelectric power?

It is made from coalIt is always availableIt pollutes the airIt produces no greenhouse gases

What is one challenge of using hydroelectric power?

It always works at nightIt pollutes the airDams can harm habitatsIt needs gasoline