Types of Trains

A train is a set of railway × railway AARONCHENPS—GETTY IMAGES a track made of steel rails (noun) A railway runs through the center of town. cars. Some trains carry people. Others carry goods. Trains can move along one track or two. Ready to ride? Chug × chug ZINKEVYCH—GETTY IMAGES to move while making a dull sound, as though with effort (verb) We watched the motorboat chug up the river. along with TIME for Kids as we discover different types of trains.

This is a freight × freight GLOWIMAGES—GETTY IMAGES goods that are carried by truck, train, ship, or plane (noun) The steamboat carries both people and freight. train.

It carries heavy goods. Freight trains often travel long distances. What do you think this train is carrying in its containers?

This is a passenger train.

It carries people from place to place. It can travel across the country. Have you been on a train like this?

This is a monorail.

It runs on one track instead of two. Monorails are powered by electricity. They are often used at airports and amusement parks × amusement park JUSTINA DZEBRAILOVE—EYEEM/GETTY IMAGES a place that has games and rides for entertainment (noun) I love to ride the roller coaster at the amusement park. .

This is a subway train.

People in big cities ride subway trains. These trains are powered by electricity. They run underground.

Did You Know?

Trains can move very fast. They can’t stop quickly. That’s why there are signs and signals at railroad crossings. Always pay attention to these signs and signals. They help people stay safe.