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Student Article

How Science and Technology Help Prevent and Predict Wildfires

By: Hayley Bennett
Originally Published in  Science Focus

With drier, hotter weather becoming the norm, scientists are turning to drones, laser scanning, and advanced computer models to better understand, predict, and prevent the spread of wildfires.

The article "How science and technology help prevent and predict wildfires" from BBC Science Focus explores how researchers are using cutting-edge technology to monitor and analyze controlled forest fires. Through computer models, drones, and laser scanning, scientists gather valuable data to improve wildfire predictions and create safer, more effective fire prevention strategies.
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:
Engineering and Technology
Keywords
wildfiresfire preventiondronescomputer modelsforest management
A wildfire with many trees burning
© U.S. Department of Agriculture

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: 600L – 750L
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2
Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 850L – 1000L
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3
Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 1100– 1300L
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