Classroom Resources  
Student Article

Could Fire-Breathing Animals Really Exist?

By: Stephen Kelly
Originally Published in  Science Focus

Explore the science behind fire-breathing creatures and the possibility of their existence.

The article "Could Fire-Breathing Animals Really Exist?" from BBC Science Focus discusses the scientific plausibility of fire-breathing animals, inspired by the dragons in House of the Dragon. Evolutionary biologist Henry Gee explains how certain chemical reactions and fire-resistant materials could theoretically enable an animal to breathe fire.
Student Article Info

BBC's Science Focus is packed with news, discoveries, ideas and innovations to keep you up-to-speed with the complexities of the fast-moving world around us. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Grades:
3-56-89-12
Subject:
Science
Topic:
Life Science
Keywords
fire-breathing animalsdragonsHouse of the Dragonchemistryevolutionary biologyfire-resistant materials
An illustration of a huge winged dragon breathing fire from its mouth while a knight on horseback tries to fight it
© Getty

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

1
Level 1 Reading Passage
Grades: 3-5Lexile Level: 400-600L
Preview
2
Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 700-900L
Preview
3
Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 900-1100L
Preview
Share: