📖 Reading: Cotton - Nature's Versatile Fibre

Cotton is one of the world's most important natural fibres, grown on plants in the genus Gossypium. The cotton plant produces fluffy white bolls that contain seeds surrounded by soft fibres. These fibres are made primarily of cellulose, a natural polymer that gives cotton its strength and absorbency.

Where Cotton Grows: Cotton thrives in warm climates and is grown in over 80 countries worldwide. The largest producers include China, India, the United States, Brazil, and Pakistan. In the Southern Hemisphere, Australia is a significant cotton producer, particularly in Queensland and New South Wales.

From Plant to Fabric: The journey begins when cotton bolls are harvested, either by hand or machine. The fibres are then separated from seeds through a process called ginning. Next, the fibres are cleaned, carded (combed), and spun into yarn. This yarn is then woven or knitted into fabric, which can be dyed, printed, and sewn into clothing.

Properties: Cotton is valued for being breathable, absorbent, soft, and easy to care for. It can be machine washed and is comfortable to wear in warm weather, making it ideal for t-shirts, jeans, and bed linens.

🧠 Part 1: Understanding Cotton

1. _________________ 2. _________________

✏️ Part 2: From Plant to Wardrobe

_____ Weaving or knitting into fabric

_____ Harvesting cotton bolls

_____ Sewing fabric into garments

_____ Ginning (separating fibres from seeds)

_____ Spinning fibres into yarn

_____ Carding (combing) the fibres

Country chosen: _________________