How Did the Earth Form?

Is this a question that has popped up in your year 5 or year 6 science classroom? Deep questions such as this are sure to arise with students, and we want to make sure that you are prepared to answer them as they arise!

The formation of Earth is believed to have occurred approximately 4.5 billion years ago. Scientists believe that Earth formed through a process that involved the gradual accumulation of matter in space.

Earth is thought to have formed from the collision and merging of many protoplanets. As these protoplanets collided, they released heat and energy, causing the early Earth to become a hot, molten ball of rock. Over time, the planet cooled and solidified, forming a crust on its surface. Pretty cool, right?

If you are looking for a way to integrate this interesting science topic into your reading block, Teach Starter has a differentiated reading passage ready for you to use in your classroom!

This download comes with two different passages, one with more complex vocabulary (as noted by the 2 star) in the upper right-hand corner) and one with more simplified vocabulary (one-star version).  A question page follows the reading, where students must research vocabulary, sequence events and answer comprehension questions.

An answer key is included with your download to make grading fast and easy!  

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

If there are students who need an additional challenge, encourage them to read the 2-star version of the passage with more complicated vocabulary. Additionally, students can create a comic or infographic showcasing the information they learned.

For students who need additional support, consider assigning the one-star version of the reading passage. While the information is largely the same, some of the vocabulary words have been simplified.

Easily Download & Print

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF, editable Powerpoint, or Google Slides version of this resource. 

Because this resource includes an answer sheet, we recommend you print one copy of the entire file. Then, make photocopies of the blank worksheet for students to complete. 

To save paper, we suggest printing this 2-page worksheet double-sided. 

Additionally, project the worksheet onto a screen and work through it as a class by having students record their answers in their notebooks. 

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities to shorten your lesson planning time:  

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