Why Do We Sneeze? | A2 ESL Science Reading Passage

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

Sneezing is a reflex that helps clear the nose.

Reading Level

A2-B1

Word Count

196 words

Reading Passage

Sneezing is a quick body action. It happens when something irritates the inside of the nose. Dust, pollen, pepper, smoke, or germs can sometimes make people sneeze.

The inside of the nose is sensitive. When tiny things touch it, the nose sends a message to the brain. The brain then sends a signal to many muscles in the body.

This action is called a reflex. A reflex happens without much thinking. Blinking and coughing are other body reflexes.

When we sneeze, air rushes out through the nose and mouth. This air can move very fast. The sneeze may help push dust, pollen, or other tiny things out of the nose.

Sneezing is one way the body tries to protect itself. It helps clear the nose when something does not belong there. However, a sneeze can also spread tiny drops into the air.

That is why it is good to cover a sneeze with an elbow or tissue. This helps keep other people safe. After using a tissue, it is also good to wash the hands.

Most sneezes are normal. They are a simple sign that the nose and brain are working together to remove something irritating.

The nose feels irritation, the brain sends a signal, and air rushes out.

Key Vocabulary

Word	Meaning	Example
irritates	bothers or makes part of the body react	Dust irritates the nose.
reflex	an automatic body action	Sneezing is a reflex.
dust	tiny dry pieces of dirt or other material	Dust can make people sneeze.
elbow	the middle part of the arm where it bends	Cover a sneeze with your elbow.
signal	a message sent by the body	The brain sends a signal to the muscles.

Reading Comprehension Questions

1. What can make people sneeze?
2. What sends a message to the brain?
3. What is a reflex?
4. What may a sneeze push out of the nose?
5. Why should people cover a sneeze?

Answers

1. Dust, pollen, pepper, smoke, or germs can make people sneeze.
2. The inside of the nose sends a message to the brain.
3. A reflex is an automatic body action.
4. A sneeze may push dust, pollen, or tiny things out of the nose.
5. Covering a sneeze helps keep other people safe.

Short Summary

We sneeze when something irritates the nose. Sneezing is a reflex that helps clear the nose and protect the body.

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