Christopher Columbus: Sailing to the Americas — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

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

About This Reader

This engaging U.S. history reading passage explores Christopher Columbus and his famous voyage in 1492, which helped connect Europe and the Americas. Students learn about Columbus’s background, his challenges, and why his journey became such an important part of American history. The passage is designed for upper elementary readers and uses clear, simple language to build foundational literacy and history knowledge. Key vocabulary words are highlighted and supported by a glossary. The passage also includes a Spanish translation, read aloud audio, a timeline of key events, a multiple-choice quiz, and writing activities. Students can use the included graphic organizer to compare causes and effects of Columbus’s voyage. This lesson aligns with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, making it perfect for teachers and students studying early U.S. explorers and colonial America.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"Columbus Taking Possession" by L. Prang & Co., Boston/ Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

Christopher Columbus was an explorer from Italy. He believed he could reach Asia by sailing west across the Atlantic Ocean. Many people thought his plan would not work. Still, Columbus was brave and wanted to find a new route.

In 1492, Columbus asked Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Spain for help. He needed money and ships for his journey. At first, they said no. But soon, they agreed because they wanted to find gold and spices. They gave Columbus three ships: the Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa María.

Columbus and his crew started their trip in August 1492. The journey was long and hard. The sailors were scared. They did not know what they would find. Sometimes, they worried about running out of food and water. Columbus told them, "By prevailing over all obstacles and distractions, one may unfailingly arrive at his chosen goal or destination." He gave them hope to keep going.

After many weeks, on October 12, 1492, the lookout shouted, "Land!" Columbus and his men reached an island in what is now the Bahamas. He thought they were in Asia, but they had found a new land. Columbus met people called the Taino. He wrote about the island and the people in his journal.

Columbus made three more trips to these new lands. He brought back gold, plants, and animals to Spain. His journeys opened the way for other explorers. Many people from Europe came to the Americas after Columbus. This changed the world for both Europeans and the people already living there.

Columbus’s voyage helped connect Europe and the Americas. This was the start of many changes for both places. New foods, animals, and ideas were shared. But it also led to hard times for Native peoples.

Interesting Fact: Columbus never knew he had found a new continent. He died believing he had reached Asia.

Who was Christopher Columbus?

An explorer from ItalyA king of SpainA Native Taino leaderA ship builder

In what year did Columbus sail west?

1492162017761800

Which ship was NOT Columbus's?

Santa MaríaMayflowerNiñaPinta

Why did Columbus want to sail west?

To find AsiaTo find AustraliaTo escape SpainTo meet the Taino

What happened after Columbus met the Taino?

He wrote in his journalHe returned homeHe built a new shipHe found gold

How did Columbus inspire his crew?