Why Does Metal Feel Colder Than Wood — Reading Comprehension
Premium Resource
Grades
- 3
- 4
- 5
Standards
- NGSS 4-PS3-2
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 250-word reading passage helps fourth-grade students understand an important physical science concept: why metal feels colder than wood even when both materials are at the same temperature. Aligned with NGSS standard 4-PS3-2 and disciplinary core ideas PS3.A and PS3.B, the passage explains thermal conductors and insulators in age-appropriate language. Students learn that metal is a good thermal conductor that quickly pulls thermal energy away from warm skin, while wood is a poor conductor (good insulator) that pulls heat slowly. This passage corrects the common misconception that metal is actually colder than wood. The content includes real-world examples, bold key vocabulary terms with immediate definitions, and concrete analogies that fourth graders can relate to. Audio-integrated features support diverse learners. Supplementary activities include comprehension questions, writing prompts, and graphic organizers that reinforce understanding of heat transfer and material properties. Perfect for introducing energy transfer concepts in elementary physical science units.
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
