P7 Reading Science: Telescopes

This explanation text for P7, linking to the topicvibrations and waves, explains how a reflecting telescope works. Ever since the famous astronomer Galileo first looked at the stars with a simple spyglass more than 400 years ago, scientists have been using telescopes to understand the mysteries of space. Early telescopes used glass lenses to magnify the light from distant objects – these are called refracting telescopes. Most modern telescopes use curved mirrors instead.

This downloadable reading pack includes:

• An A3 reading spread for you to print.
• Reading comprehension question and answer sheets, differentiated using our magnifying glasses key (on the bottom right). One magnifying glass indicates easier and two means harder.