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Level A1 – BeginnerCEFR A1
2 min
72 words
- A new study looks at wildfire smoke and pregnancy.
- The research used many births in Southern California.
- If a mother breathed smoke in the last months, risk rose.
- Children were more often diagnosed with autism by age five.
- The effect was stronger after many days with smoke.
- Wildfire smoke has tiny particles and toxic metals.
- More boys than girls were diagnosed with autism.
- Scientists say more study is needed to be sure.
Difficult words
- pregnancy — time when a woman carries a baby
- research — careful study to find new information
- diagnose — to say what illness a person hasdiagnosed
- autism — a condition that affects social and communication skills
- particle — a very small piece of matterparticles
- toxic — harmful and dangerous to people or animals
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever smelled smoke from a wildfire?
- Do you think people should stay inside when there is smoke?
- Would you try to avoid smoke during pregnancy?
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