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Student Article

Understanding Water: The Key to Life on Earth

By: Brian Clegg
Originally Published in  Science Focus

Water makes life on Earth possible with its unique properties, from its ability to dissolve substances to its essential role in the water cycle.

The article "Understanding Water: The Key to Life on Earth" from BBC Science Focus explains how water’s physical properties, like hydrogen bonding, allow it to support life on Earth. It highlights the importance of water in living organisms, the water cycle, and the discovery of water in space.
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.

A man standing at the entrance of an ice cave
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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
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2
Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 700L - 900L
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3
Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 900L - 1100L
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