Spring and Neap Tides

Help students understand why tides change size with this print-ready reading passage and question set for NGSS MS-ESS1-1 and grades 6-8. The science note brings in the Sun, explaining how spring tides form when the Sun, Moon, and Earth line up, how neap tides form when the Sun and Moon are at a right angle, and how both connect to the Moon's phases.

A two-panel diagram supports the text, and four scaffolded questions build from identifying the Moon phases of spring tides to a misconception-buster: explaining why the Sun still matters even though the Moon is closer. Short-answer lines give students space to write full explanations.

A complete answer key with sample responses is included, and the sheet prints cleanly in black and white. Use it alongside the What Causes Tides reading and the full tides unit for a connected teach, practice, and assess path.

• Reading passage plus 4 questions with answer key
• Spring vs neap diagram
• Aligned to NGSS MS-ESS1-1, grades 6-8