Skin — Reading Comprehension Lesson

Reading Passage

Skin

The skin is the largest organ of the human body. It covers the entire outside of the body, forming a protective barrier between the internal organs and the outside world. In an average adult, the skin covers about 20 square feet and accounts for about 15 percent of total body weight.

Skin is made up of three main layers. The outermost layer is called the epidermis. It is constantly renewing itself as old skin cells die and are replaced by new ones from below. The middle layer, the dermis, contains hair follicles, sweat glands, and nerves. The deepest layer, the hypodermis, is made mostly of fat that insulates the body and cushions it against bumps.

One of skin’s most important jobs is protecting the body from germs. The epidermis acts as a physical barrier, preventing bacteria and viruses from entering. Skin also prevents the body from losing too much water.

Skin helps regulate body temperature. When the body gets too hot, sweat glands release moisture that evaporates and cools the skin. When temperatures drop, tiny muscles cause goose bumps, which trap a layer of warm air close to the body.

Skin also contains nerve endings that detect sensations like touch, pressure, pain, and temperature. These signals travel to the brain, allowing people to respond to their environment — pulling away from something hot, for example.

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