Catamaran

High school (ages 12+)
Transportation

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/catamaran

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 primary stability mechanism?Inherent geometric stability derived from wide hull separation, minimizing reliance on ballast
2. What is the historical significance?Key technology enabling Austronesian peoples' extensive oceanic migrations and island settlement
3. Why are catamarans so stable?The two hulls are far apart, which creates a big righting lever. This geometry keeps the boat from tipping over easily.
4. How do catamarans go faster than regular boats?Each hull is smaller and has less water resistance. This means the boat needs less power to move and can reach higher speeds.

Heeling: The leaning or tilting of a sailing vessel to one side due to wind pressure on the sails.
Draft (Draught): The minimum depth of water a vessel needs to float safely.
Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro): A type of ship designed to carry wheeled cargo, such as cars and trucks, that can be driven on and off.
Superstructure: Any structure built above the main deck of a ship.