Why Do We Blink? | A2 ESL Science Reading Passage

Use this A2-B1 ESL science reading passage to learn why people blink. It includes key vocabulary, reading comprehension questions, and answers for English learners.

Blinking keeps the eyes moist, clean, and protected.

Reading Level

A2-B1

Word Count

216 words

Reading Passage

We blink many times every minute. Most of the time, we do not think about it. Blinking happens so fast that we hardly notice it.

To blink, the eyelids close and open again. This small movement has several important jobs.

One job is to keep the eyes wet. The eyes need moisture to feel comfortable and work well. Each blink spreads a thin layer of tears across the front of the eye.

Tears are not only for crying. They help clean the eyes. When dust or tiny particles touch the eye, blinking can wash them away. This helps stop the eye from feeling dry or scratchy.

Blinking also protects the eyes. If something moves quickly toward your face, your eyes may close before you can think. This quick action can protect the eye from dirt, wind, or danger.

People may blink more when their eyes are dry. Reading for a long time or looking at a screen can make people blink less. Then the eyes may feel tired or dry.

Blinking is controlled by the body, but we can also blink on purpose. Try not to blink for a short time, and your eyes may soon feel uncomfortable.

Blinking is simple, but it is very useful. It keeps the eyes moist, clean, and safe all day.

Blinking spreads tears, removes dust, and protects the eyes.

Key Vocabulary

Word	Meaning	Example
blink	to close and open the eyes quickly	We blink many times each minute.
eyelid	the thin skin that closes over the eye	The eyelid moves down during a blink.
moisture	a small amount of water	Tears give the eye moisture.
tear	liquid that keeps the eye wet	A tear can wash dust away.
protect	to keep something safe	Blinking helps protect the eyes.

Reading Comprehension Questions

1. What moves when we blink?
2. What does blinking spread across the eye?
3. How can tears help clean the eyes?
4. When may people blink more?
5. Why is blinking useful?

Answers

1. The eyelids move when we blink.
2. Blinking spreads a thin layer of tears.
3. Tears can wash away dust or tiny particles.
4. People may blink more when their eyes are dry.
5. Blinking keeps the eyes moist, clean, and safe.

Short Summary

Blinking spreads tears over the eyes. It keeps the eyes moist, washes away dust, and helps protect them.

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