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What Is Wave Energy? — Reading Comprehension

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MS-ESS3-1

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This passage introduces middle school students to wave energy—a clean, renewable energy source that comes from the movement of ocean waves. The passage explains how devices like point absorbers and oscillating water columns use wave motion to power generators and produce electricity. Students will explore how wave energy works, its environmental benefits, and some of the challenges engineers face when designing ocean-based power systems. The passage supports NGSS standard MS-ESS3-1, helping students build science literacy, energy awareness, and real-world understanding of sustainable energy solutions.

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Wave energy is a form of renewable energy that comes from the movement of ocean waves. When wind blows across the surface of the sea, it creates waves. These waves carry kinetic energy, which can be captured and turned into electricity.

Wave energy is collected using special machines placed in the water. These devices float on the surface or are fixed to the ocean floor. As the waves move, they push parts of the machine up and down or back and forth. This motion is used to power a generator, which creates electricity.

One type of wave energy device is a point absorber. It is a floating buoy that moves with the waves. Inside the buoy, the movement powers a generator. Another type is an oscillating water column, which traps air above rising and falling water. The air moves through a turbine that makes electricity.

Wave energy is helpful because it is clean and predictable. Ocean waves happen all day and all year, especially in coastal areas. Like other renewable sources, wave energy does not release greenhouse gases or cause air pollution.

But wave energy also has challenges. The machines must survive harsh ocean conditions like storms and strong currents. They can also be expensive to build and maintain, and they may affect marine animals or boats nearby.

Even with these challenges, wave energy is a powerful example of how we can use the ocean’s motion to meet our energy needs. It’s a growing part of our shift toward sustainable energy.

Fun Fact: Some wave energy machines are designed to look like sea snakes, moving with the waves as they float on the water!

What creates ocean waves?

Rain and snowEarthquakesWind blowing across the seaUnderwater volcanoes

What kind of energy do waves carry?

Chemical energyKinetic energyThermal energyLight energy

What does a generator do in a wave energy device?

Cools the machineMakes electricityCollects waterStores sunlight

What is a point absorber?

A type of fishA floating wave energy deviceA kind of stormA weather tool

Why is wave energy considered renewable?

It is made from oilIt never pollutesWaves keep coming naturallyIt uses heat from the sun

What is one challenge of using wave energy?