Major Highways

This passage explores the major blood vessels in the circulatory system, describing how arteries, veins, and capillaries function like highways for blood. It details the characteristics of arteries, such as their thick walls to handle high pressure, and the thinner walls of veins, which carry deoxygenated blood. The passage explains how blood moves through these vessels, ensuring oxygen and nutrients are delivered while waste is removed. It also discusses the critical role these vessels play in maintaining overall health.

Reading this passage improves students’ understanding of metaphors, as it compares blood vessels to highways, making complex concepts more relatable. The detailed descriptions of biological processes challenge students’ reading comprehension and scientific analysis. It also expands their vocabulary, particularly in anatomy and physiology, helping them better understand how the body functions. Lastly, the passage promotes critical thinking as students consider how different types of blood vessels serve different roles in circulation.