Astronomy & Space Science: Reading Comprehension Passages (PDF)

Astronomy & Space Science: Reading Comprehension Passages & Questions (PDF)

This engaging collection of science reading passages about Astronomy and Space Science is designed to bridge the gap between science and literacy through strengthening reading comprehension and sparking scientific curiosity in middle school students. Each passage blends English Language Arts skills with accurate science content that supports NGSS classroom practice. Ideal for interdisciplinary learning in ELA and Science. Suitable for Grade 9 review, too!

What Is Included?

There are (3) informational passages:

1. The Solar System: A Neighborhood in Motion: Understand orbits, the Sun’s role, the differences between inner and outer planets, and where asteroids and comets fit in the system.

2. The Story of Space Science: Trace the path from early skywatching to telescopes, satellites, exploration missions, and the ISS, with practical links to GPS, communications, and weather forecasting.

3. Stars of Many Sizes: Dwarfs, Giants, and Neutrons: Explore stellar types and life cycles, including our Sun, red giants, supernovas, neutron stars, and pulsars.

Student Tasks for Each Passage

• 5 multiple-choice questions targeting main idea, key details, inference, vocabulary in context, and use of evidence

• 5 vocabulary matching items with clear, student-friendly definitions

• 5 text-based questions that require citing specific lines or facts

• 1 summary prompt that asks students to condense central ideas accurately

• Full answer key for every section

Available Formats for this Resource:

PDF
Word Docs
Google Docs

FULL CATALOG OF DOWNLOADING LINKS HERE

Reading Passage Links:

Astronomy & Space Science

PDF
Word Docs
Google Docs

Product Details

• Length: 14 pages total

• Grades: 6–8, also suitable for Grade 9 review

• Use cases: close reading, stations, homework, intervention, test prep, and sub plans

• Standards support: reinforces informational-text skills and supports NGSS-style sense making through observation, modeling, and clear use of claim, evidence, and reasoning

Why Teachers Choose This Set

• Authentic science content paired with rigorous literacy practice

• Consistent task structure across all passages for easier planning and smoother student routines

• Clear, age-appropriate writing that builds confidence without oversimplifying

Use this set to reinforce ELA skills in science, to add literacy to your lessons, or to support independent work. The passages strengthen main idea, evidence use, vocabulary in context, inference, cause and effect, and summary writing. With ready-to-use assessments and complete answer keys, you can provide focused practice that is simple to run and fast to review.