Introducing KNOVA — A free reading app with curriculum-aligned passages on History & Science for Grades 3-8Learn More →

California Water Resources — Reading Comprehension

No ratings yet

Premium Resource

Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
D2.GEO.1.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

Rate this resource

Send Feedback / Report an Issue

About This Reader

This engaging history passage explores the crucial role of water in shaping California during the Progressive Era, focusing on the late 1800s and early 1900s. Students will discover how water supported California’s rapid growth in farmland and cities, made possible by new inventions and hard work. The passage highlights key events such as the construction of aqueducts and irrigation systems, and explains how these changes helped turn California into one of America's leading farming states. Young readers will meet important historical figures, learn about problem-solving during tough times, and see the impact of water on industry and agriculture. The reading includes a glossary, timeline, comprehension quiz, writing activities, and graphic organizers, all aligned to C3 and Common Core standards. Read aloud audio and Spanish translation are included to support all learners. This resource is perfect for building historical understanding and literacy skills while exploring the themes of innovation, teamwork, and perseverance.

CONTENT PREVIEW

L. A. Aqueduct celebration, Nov. 5th, 1913. at the Cascades.
Source: Library of Congress - Smythe, S. A.

California is a state where water is not always easy to find. Much of California is dry, with deserts and valleys that do not get much rain. But the state is also famous for its rich farmland and large cities. To grow crops and support millions of people, California needed a way to move water from where it was plentiful to where it was needed most.

In the early 1900s, leaders and engineers began building huge projects to bring water to dry areas. These projects included long aqueducts—large pipes or channels that carry water over great distances. The Los Angeles Aqueduct was finished in 1913 and carried water from the distant Sierra Nevada Mountains to the city of Los Angeles. This helped the city grow quickly and become one of the largest in the country.

Water was also needed for farming. California’s Central Valley became one of the most important farming areas in the world. To support all the crops, farmers used irrigation—the process of bringing water to fields. Ditches, canals, and pumps delivered water to places where it did not naturally flow. This allowed farmers to grow fruits, vegetables, and nuts even in dry seasons.

But moving water across California was not easy. It required careful planning and teamwork. Many people had to agree on how water should be shared between cities, farms, and nature. Leaders set up water management programs to keep track of how much water was used and to make sure everyone had enough. Sometimes, there were arguments and controversies about who should get the water first.

These huge projects changed California. Cities grew, farms thrived, and the state became a leader in agriculture. But there were also challenges. Moving so much water changed rivers and lakes, and sometimes harmed wildlife. People learned that water is one of the most important and debated resources in the state.

California’s story shows how people can solve big problems by working together, using new ideas, and respecting the land. The struggle to control water made California stronger and taught important lessons about sharing and caring for natural resources.

Interesting Fact: The Los Angeles Aqueduct is over 200 miles long—about the distance from Los Angeles to San Diego!

When was the Los Angeles Aqueduct finished?

1913190019201950

Why did California need aqueducts?

To bring water to dry placesTo build new roadsTo grow tall treesFor gold mining

Where did the aqueduct bring water from?

The Sierra Nevada MountainsThe Pacific OceanSan Francisco BayCentral Valley

What is irrigation used for?

Bringing water to cropsBuilding housesMaking roadsFeeding animals

How did moving water help California?

Cities and farms could growRivers dried upIt stopped rainPeople left the state

What was one challenge of water projects?