Use this A2-B1 ESL science reading passage to learn why do mirrors show reflections?. It includes key vocabulary, reading comprehension questions, and answers for English learners.

Reading Level
A2-B1
Word Count
200 words
Reading Passage
A mirror shows us an image because of light. We can see things when light travels from them to our eyes.
A mirror has a very smooth and shiny surface. When light hits this surface, it does not scatter in many directions like it does on a rough wall. Instead, much of the light can bounce in an organized way.
This bouncing light makes a reflection. Light from your face travels to the mirror. Then it bounces from the mirror to your eyes. Your brain uses that light to understand the image.
A mirror does not make a new person or object. It only sends light back. That is why the image moves when you move.
Smooth water can also show a reflection. But if the water has waves, the reflection looks broken. The moving surface sends light in many directions.
Dirty or scratched mirrors may not show a clear image. A clean smooth mirror reflects light better.
Mirrors show reflections because light bounces from a smooth shiny surface and reaches our eyes.

Key Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| mirror | a smooth shiny object that shows a reflection | The mirror is on the wall. |
| reflection | an image seen in a mirror or water | I saw my reflection. |
| light | energy that lets us see | Light came from the lamp. |
| surface | the outside part of something | The mirror surface is smooth. |
| bounce | to hit something and move away | Light can bounce from a mirror. |
Reading Comprehension Questions
- What helps us see things?
- What kind of surface does a mirror have?
- What does light do when it hits a mirror?
- Does a mirror make a new person?
- Why can wavy water show a broken reflection?
Answers
- Light helps us see things.
- It has a smooth and shiny surface.
- It bounces from the mirror.
- No, it only sends light back.
- The moving surface sends light in many directions.
Short Summary
Mirrors show reflections because light bounces from a smooth shiny surface and travels to our eyes.
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