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Student Article

Galileo Galilei: The Astronomer Who Challenged the Church and Changed Science

By: Danny Bird
Originally Published in  HistoryExtra

Galileo Galilei’s bold discoveries about space revolutionized science — but they also put him at odds with the Catholic Church, leading to a trial for heresy and house arrest.

The article "Galileo Galilei: The Astronomer Who Challenged the Church and Changed Science" from BBC's HistoryExtra explores the groundbreaking work of Galileo Galilei, who supported the heliocentric theory, advanced telescope technology, and transformed astronomy and physics. Despite his scientific genius, Galileo clashed with the Catholic Church, leading to persecution and house arrest in his later years.
Student Article Info

BBC's HistoryExtra is devoted to both British and world history and aimed at readers of all levels of knowledge and interest. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Grades:
6-89-12
Subject:
Social Studies
Topic:
History
Keywords
Galileo Galileiheliocentric modelCatholic Churchastronomytelescope
Illustration of Galileo demonstrating his telescope to people
© 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.

2
Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 800–1000L
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Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 1000–1300L
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