Steamship

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/steamship

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 propulsion system?Steam engines (reciprocating, turbine) driving paddle wheels or screw propellers
2. What is the primary fuel?Coal, later transitioning to oil
3. How did steamships move?Steamships had a boiler that heated water to make steam. The steam pushed pistons that turned a paddle wheel or a screw propeller, which made the ship go forward.
4. Why were steamships better than sailing ships?Steamships could keep a steady speed no matter the wind, go against currents, and travel on rivers and lakes. This let them run on schedules and open new routes.

Reciprocating Engine: An engine where a piston moves back and forth within a cylinder to generate power.
Screw Propeller: A rotating helical device that converts rotational motion into thrust by pushing fluid.
Compound Engine: A steam engine that uses steam in multiple cylinders at progressively lower pressures to increase efficiency.
Ocean Liner: A large passenger ship used for regular, scheduled voyages across oceans.