The Shortest Day: The Winter Solstice
Questions:
5
Grade:
4
Words:
84
Did you know, every year we have a day that is shorter than all the others? This day is called the Winter Solstice, and it usually happens on December 21st or 22nd. This is when the Earth's tilt makes one part of the world get less sunlight, making the day shorter and night the longest. Different cultures celebrate this day in unique ways, like the Yule festival or Saturnalia. It's a special day marking the start of winter and the return of longer days.
Question 1
What is the Winter Solstice?
A
It's a festival
B
It's the longest day of the year
C
It's the shortest day of the year
Explanation. The Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year, usually happening on December 21st or 22nd.
D
It's a planet
E
It's a summer day
Question 2
When is the Winter Solstice usually observed?
A
January 1st
B
December 25th
C
November 30th
D
December 21st or 22nd
Explanation. The Winter Solstice is usually observed on December 21st or 22nd.
E
October 31st
Question 3
What happens on the day of the Winter Solstice?
A
The sun shines brighter
B
The night is the longest
Explanation. On the day of the Winter Solstice, the night is the longest because the Earth's tilt makes one part of the world get less sunlight.
C
It snows everywhere
D
The sun sets in the east
E
The day and night are of equal length
Question 4
What is Yule?
A
A type of food
B
A summer festival
C
A winter festival
Explanation. Yule is one of the ways different cultures celebrate the Winter Solstice, which marks the start of winter.
D
A type of dance
E
A spring festival
Question 5
What does the Winter Solstice mark?
A
The start of summer
B
The end of winter
C
The start of spring
D
The start of fall
E
The start of winter
Explanation. The Winter Solstice is a special day marking the start of winter and the return of longer days.
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