Stephen Hawking and the Edge of a Black Hole
Stephen Hawking was born in Oxford, England, on January 8, 1942. Exactly 300 years earlier, on January 8, 1642, the astronomer Galileo Galilei had died. Like Galileo, Hawking would become known for asking questions about the universe. His most famous work explored some of its strangest objects: black holes.
Hawking studied physics at the University of Oxford and then began research at the University of Cambridge. Physics is the study of matter, energy, and the laws that govern how they behave. At Cambridge, he investigated the beginnings of the universe and the powerful effects of gravity.
When Hawking was 21, he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. This disease gradually affects the nerve cells that control muscles. Over time, he needed a power wheelchair and assistance with everyday activities. After a procedure in 1985, he could no longer speak with his natural voice. He used a computer system that produced speech to communicate, give lectures, and share his ideas.
Hawking continued his scientific work with support from family members, colleagues, caregivers, and technology. His disability was part of his life, but so were his research, teaching, writing, and relationships.
- astronomer:
- A scientist who studies objects and events in space.
- diagnosed:
- Identified as having a particular disease or condition.
- colleagues:
- People who work with someone, often in the same field.
- calculations:
- Answers or results found by using math.
- prediction:
- A statement about what is expected to happen or be found.
- radiation:
- Energy given off and traveling through space or matter.
- detected:
- Discovered or noticed through observation or measurement.
- mass:
- The amount of matter in an object.
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Preview questions from this passageShowHide
- 1Why might the author begin with the connection between Hawking’s birth and Galileo’s death?
- 2How did technology help Hawking continue his work after 1985?
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About this biography passage for 6th Grade
“Stephen Hawking and the Edge of a Black Hole” is a biography reading passage about Stephen Hawking and black holes, written for 6th Grade. It takes about 3 minutes to read (495 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.