📖 Reading Text: The Amazing Water Cycle

Water is constantly moving around our planet in an endless journey called the water cycle. This amazing process has been happening for millions of years and is essential for all life on Earth, including here in New Zealand.

The water cycle begins with evaporation. When the sun heats up water in oceans, lakes, and rivers, it changes from liquid into invisible water vapour that rises into the atmosphere. In New Zealand, this happens constantly around our coastlines and numerous lakes like Lake Taupo.

As water vapour rises higher into the sky, it cools down. This cooling causes condensation - the water vapour changes back into tiny water droplets that form clouds. You can see this process when your breath fogs up on a cold morning!

When clouds become heavy with water droplets, precipitation occurs. This means water falls back to Earth as rain, snow, or hail. New Zealand receives plenty of precipitation, especially on the West Coast of the South Island, where some areas get over 5 metres of rain per year!

Plants also play an important role through transpiration. Trees and other plants absorb water through their roots and release water vapour through their leaves. New Zealand's native forests, like those in Fiordland, contribute significantly to this process.

Finally, collection happens when the fallen water gathers in rivers, lakes, and underground sources, eventually flowing back to the ocean. The cycle then begins again. This continuous process ensures fresh water is always available for drinking, farming, and supporting ecosystems across Aotearoa New Zealand.

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🤔 Comprehension Questions

When water vapour rises into the sky, it __________ down and changes back into tiny water __________ that form __________.

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