Use this A2-B1 ESL science reading passage to learn why tornadoes form. It includes key vocabulary, reading comprehension questions, and answers for English learners.
Reading Level
A2-B1
Word Count
241 words
Reading Passage
A tornado is a powerful spinning column of air. It reaches down from a storm cloud to the ground. Tornadoes can be dangerous because their winds are very strong.
Most tornadoes form during a strong thunderstorm. In the storm, warm wet air rises from near the ground. Cooler dry air may move above it. When these different air masses meet, the storm can become stronger.
Wind is also important. Sometimes wind near the ground blows in one direction, while wind higher in the sky blows in another direction. This can make the air begin to rotate.
Inside a strong storm, rising air can lift this spinning air upward. The rotating air may become tighter and faster. A dark funnel cloud can form below the storm cloud.
If the funnel cloud reaches the ground, it becomes a tornado. It may pick up dust, leaves, or small objects. Some tornadoes last only a few minutes. Others can travel a longer distance.
Weather scientists watch storms carefully. They use radar and reports from people on the ground. A tornado warning means people should move to a safe place quickly.
Tornadoes form when warm air, cool air, strong storms, and changing winds work together. Understanding them helps people stay safer during severe weather.
Key Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| tornado | a fast spinning column of air that reaches the ground | A tornado can have very strong winds. |
| thunderstorm | a storm with thunder, lightning, rain, and strong wind | A tornado may form during a thunderstorm. |
| rotate | to spin around | The air can rotate inside the storm. |
| funnel | a cone-shaped cloud or object | A funnel cloud may reach the ground. |
| warning | information that tells people danger may come | A tornado warning means people should get safe. |
Reading Comprehension Questions
- What is a tornado?
- What kind of storm can form a tornado?
- What can make air begin to rotate?
- What happens when a funnel cloud reaches the ground?
- What should people do during a tornado warning?
Answers
- A tornado is a fast spinning column of air that reaches the ground.
- A strong thunderstorm can form a tornado.
- Winds blowing in different directions can make air rotate.
- It becomes a tornado.
- They should move to a safe place quickly.
Short Summary
Tornadoes can form when warm air, cool air, strong storms, and changing winds work together. A funnel cloud becomes a tornado when it reaches the ground.
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