Why Do Big Waves Knock You Over — Reading Comprehension
Premium Resource
Grades
- 3
- 4
- 5
Standards
- NGSS PS4.A
PRINT+DIGITAL RESOURCE
This learning resource is available in interactive and printable formats. The interactive worksheet can be played online and assigned to students. The Printable PDF version can be downloaded and printed for completion by hand.
About This Reader
This engaging reading passage introduces fourth-grade students to the relationship between wave amplitude and energy, aligned with NGSS standard PS4.A. Students explore why large ocean waves have enough force to knock them over while small ripples barely move them. The passage uses familiar beach experiences to explain that wave amplitude (height) is directly related to the amount of energy the wave carries. Through clear explanations and relatable examples, students build foundational understanding of how waves transfer energy. The passage includes audio integration for accessibility, bolded vocabulary terms with immediate definitions, and real-world applications. Supplementary activities include multiple-choice comprehension questions, writing prompts requiring students to apply their understanding, and graphic organizers that help students compare different wave types and analyze cause-and-effect relationships. The simplified differentiated version ensures all learners can access the core science concept through shorter sentences and scaffolded structure. Spanish translations are provided for both versions to support English language learners.
Perfect For:
👩🏫 Teachers
- • Reading comprehension practice
- • Auto-graded assessments
- • Literacy skill development
👨👩👧👦 Parents
- • Reading practice at home
- • Comprehension improvement
- • Educational reading time
🏠 Homeschoolers
- • Reading curriculum support
- • Independent reading practice
- • Progress monitoring
Reading Features:
📖
Reading Passage
Engaging fiction or nonfiction text
❓
Comprehension Quiz
Auto-graded questions
📊
Instant Feedback
Immediate results and scoring
📄
Printable Version
Download for offline reading
🔊
Read Aloud
Voice-over with word highlighting
