Use this A2-B1 ESL science reading passage to learn why people shiver. It includes key vocabulary, reading comprehension questions, and answers for English learners.
Reading Level
A2-B1
Word Count
229 words
Reading Passage
On a cold day, your body may begin to shake. Your teeth may chatter, and your shoulders may move quickly. This shaking is called shivering.
Shivering happens when the body feels too cold. The body works best when its temperature stays close to normal. If the air is cold, heat can leave the skin. The body must try to stay warm.
The brain watches the body's temperature. When the brain senses that the body is getting cold, it sends messages to the muscles.
The muscles then move very fast. You do not choose this movement. It happens by itself. These quick muscle movements use energy and make a small amount of heat.
That heat can help warm the body. This is why shivering is useful. It is one way the body protects itself in cold weather.
Shivering is not always enough. If a person stays in cold air for too long, the body can still lose too much heat. Warm clothes, dry socks, hot drinks, and a safe warm place can help more.
People may also shiver when they have a fever. In that case, the body may feel cold even when the room is not cold. The brain is changing the body's temperature.
Shivering is a simple sign that the body is trying to make heat. It reminds us to get warm and take care of our body.
Key Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| shivering | small fast movements of the body when it is cold | I started shivering in the cold wind. |
| temperature | how hot or cold something is | Body temperature should stay near normal. |
| muscle | a body part that helps us move | A muscle can move quickly when we shiver. |
| heat | warmth | Shivering helps make heat. |
| fever | a body temperature that is higher than normal | A fever can make a person feel cold. |
Reading Comprehension Questions
- What is shivering?
- Why does the body shiver in cold weather?
- What part of the body sends messages to the muscles?
- How do fast muscle movements help the body?
- What can help a person stay warm?
Answers
- Shivering is small fast movements of the body.
- The body shivers to help make heat and stay warm.
- The brain sends messages to the muscles.
- They use energy and make a small amount of heat.
- Warm clothes, dry socks, hot drinks, and a warm place can help.
Short Summary
Shivering happens when the body feels cold. Fast muscle movements make heat and help protect the body.
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