AstroTurf

High school (ages 12+)
Science & Technology

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/astroturf

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the scientific name?N/A (Artificial product, not a biological organism)
2. What is the habitat?Primarily installed on sports fields, stadiums, and recreational areas globally
3. Why was AstroTurf invented?It was invented to give athletes a surface that stays the same no matter the weather. This means it never needs mowing or extra care.
4. How does modern AstroTurf feel like real grass?Modern AstroTurf has longer fibers that look like real grass. Rubber or sand is added between the fibers to keep them upright, cushion impacts, and make the ball roll naturally.

Short-pile synthetic turf: An early form of artificial grass with very short, dense synthetic fibers.
Taller pile systems: Modern artificial turf designs featuring longer synthetic fibers that stand more upright.
Infill materials: Granular substances (e.g., rubber, sand) inserted between artificial turf fibers to provide cushioning, support, and aesthetic realism.
Subsidiary: A company controlled by a larger parent company, often through majority ownership.