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Anne Frank's Diary — Reading Comprehension

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This passage explores the life of Anne Frank and the significance of her diary during World War II. Students will read about Anne's experiences hiding from the Nazis in Amsterdam, examine how her words became a powerful primary source, and analyze the impact of the Holocaust on individuals and society. The reading integrates disciplinary academic vocabulary, cause-and-effect relationships, and social context, supporting critical thinking and literacy skills. Students will also engage with multiple choice and writing activities, as well as graphic organizers to deepen their historical understanding. This history reading passage includes a read aloud audio and Spanish translation, and aligns with California History-Social Science Standard 7.11 and Common Core informational text standards.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Ana Frank escritura1 — "Ana Frank scripture" by Anne Frank / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

Anne Frank was a Jewish teenager who became one of the most recognized voices of the Holocaust through her diary. Born in Frankfurt, Germany, in 1929, Anne and her family moved to Amsterdam, Netherlands, in 1934 to escape the growing dangers for Jewish people under Nazi rule. However, by 1940, the Nazis invaded the Netherlands, and life for Jews like Anne became increasingly dangerous. In July 1942, the Frank family went into hiding in a secret annex above Otto Frank’s business to avoid being arrested and sent to concentration camps.

The secret annex was a small, concealed space behind a bookcase. Anne lived there with her parents, her sister Margot, and four other people. For over two years, Anne wrote in her diary, recording her fears, hopes, daily routines, and the constant threat of discovery. She described her longing for freedom and the difficulties of living in close quarters. Anne’s writing also reflected her growth as a thinker; she questioned injustice, wrote about her dreams of becoming a journalist, and described the persecution Jews faced. In one entry, she wrote, “I want to go on living even after my death,” foreshadowing the impact her words would have on the world.

The Frank family’s life in hiding depended on the bravery of friends like Miep Gies, who brought them food and news from the outside. Despite the constant fear, Anne’s diary reveals moments of humor, hope, and friendship. She wrote about her relationship with Peter, the only teenage boy in hiding, and her reflections on human nature. Anne’s diary serves as a primary source—a firsthand account that helps historians understand the experiences of Jews under Nazi occupation. Archaeological research and other primary documents confirm many details from Anne’s diary, such as the layout of the annex and the restrictions Jews faced in Amsterdam.

In August 1944, the annex was discovered, and the Frank family was arrested and deported. Anne and her sister Margot died of disease in Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in early 1945. Otto Frank, Anne’s father, was the only family member to survive. After the war, he published Anne’s diary, fulfilling her wish to be a writer. The diary has been translated into over 70 languages and is read by millions each year. It stands as a symbol of resilience and a powerful reminder of the dangers of prejudice and intolerance.

Anne Frank’s story is significant because it connects personal experience with world events. Her diary helps us understand the impact of the Holocaust on ordinary people and challenges us to reflect on human rights and social justice. Reading her words reminds us that even in the darkest times, courage and hope can endure.

This topic connects to broader themes in world history, such as the struggle for human rights, the impact of totalitarian regimes, and the importance of preserving historical memory.

Interesting Fact: Anne Frank’s original diary was written in a red-and-white checkered notebook, which is now preserved at the Anne Frank House museum in Amsterdam.

Where did Anne Frank's family hide?

In a secret annexIn ParisIn a school basementIn a barn

Who helped the Frank family while hiding?

Miep GiesAdolf HitlerOtto von BismarckAnne’s teacher

What happened in August 1944?

The annex was discoveredAnne started her diaryThe war endedAnne moved to America

Why is Anne’s diary important?

It is a primary sourceIt was written in EnglishIt was hidden by NazisIt is a fictional story

How did Anne show resilience?

By writing with hopeBy running awayBy joining the NazisBy hiding alone

What is persecution?

Harsh unfair treatmentA secret hiding placeWriting a diaryMaking a law