solar system - 3rd Reading Passage
Worksheet Preview
Exploring Our Solar System
The solar system is an amazing place filled with different celestial bodies. It includes the Sun, eight planets, their moons, and other objects like asteroids and comets. The Sun is a star at the center of our solar system and provides light and heat to the planets.
The eight planets are Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Each planet is unique. For example, Earth is the only planet known to support life. Jupiter is the largest planet and has a big storm called the Great Red Spot. Saturn is famous for its beautiful rings made of ice and rock.
Moons are natural satellites that orbit planets. Earth has one moon, while Jupiter has over 70! Comets are icy bodies that travel through space and can develop tails when they get close to the Sun. Asteroids are rocky objects that mostly exist in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.
Understanding our solar system helps scientists learn more about space and the universe. It also inspires people to explore and discover new things about the world beyond our planet.
📚Vocabulary Words
❓Comprehension Questions
1. What is the main purpose of the passage?
1 point
2. Which planet is known for having rings?
1 point
3. Which planet is the largest in the solar system?
1 point
4. What are two types of objects found in the solar system mentioned in the passage?
2 points
5. Fill in the blanks from Word Bank.
Word Bank:
2 points
PDF includes answer key
Answer Key
Sample Answer:
Two types of objects found in the solar system are planets and comets.
About This Reading Passage
This engaging nonfiction reading passage explores The Solar System in an age-appropriate way for 3rd students. The passage is carefully crafted to develop key reading comprehension skills while keeping students interested and engaged.
Students will practice essential reading skills including main-idea, supporting-details, vocabulary-context. The passage includes thoughtfully designed questions that assess understanding at various levels, from basic recall to deeper analysis.
Teachers can use this passage for whole-class instruction, small group practice, or independent work. It's also perfect for homework assignments or test preparation. The included answer key makes grading quick and easy.
Learning Objectives
- Students will identify the main idea of the nonfiction passage
- Students will use context clues to determine word meanings
- Students will answer comprehension questions about The Solar System
- Students will make inferences based on text evidence
Reading Strategies
Extension Activities
Create Your Own Reading Passage
Generate a custom reading passage for your students in seconds!