Invisible Sunscreen Open Response

Every time you put on sunscreen, you’re protecting your skin-but did you know Earth has its own natural sunscreen? This reading passage explains how the ozone layer works like a giant protective shield, absorbing most of the Sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays before they reach people, animals, and plants. Students also learn how scientists discovered damage to this protective layer and the steps taken to help it heal.

Readers practice identifying main ideas, sequencing events, and connecting scientific discoveries with real-world actions. Vocabulary including ozone, ultraviolet rays, stratosphere, CFCs, and Montreal Protocol is introduced naturally throughout the passage. The conversational tone makes this important environmental topic easy to understand while encouraging students to appreciate one of Earth’s most valuable natural protections.