OCEANS

Map of Seas

A sea is a large body of salt water, but it is smaller than an ocean. There are about 60 seas in the world. A sea is usually connected to an ocean and is often partly surrounded by land.

The main difference between a sea and an ocean is size. Oceans are much larger and deeper. Seas are smaller, shallower, and closer to land.

A body of water can be called a sea if it is large, salty, and connected to an ocean, even if it is almost closed by land. Some seas are nearly surrounded by continents.

Many of the world’s first civilizations grew near seas. People lived near seas because they could travel, trade, and find food there.

The Mediterranean Sea is one of the most important seas in history. Ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans lived around it. It connects Europe, Africa, and Asia.

The Black Sea is connected to the Mediterranean Sea. Many ancient cities and trade routes were built along its shores. It was important for early peoples in Europe and Asia.

The Red Sea lies between Africa and Asia. It was an important sea for trade between ancient civilizations and is still very important today. This is the very sea through which Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, and which God parted to let them pass.

Other important seas include the Baltic Sea in northern Europe and the Arabian Sea near southern Asia. These seas helped people travel, trade, and share ideas.

Seas are very important for life on Earth. They help control the climate, provide food, and connect different parts of the world.

LISTEN TO THE TEXT