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D-Day June 6 1944: Normandy Invasion — Reading Comprehension

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

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This engaging history reading passage explores the events of D-Day, June 6, 1944, when Allied forces launched the largest amphibious military invasion in history at Normandy, France. Students will analyze the complexities, strategies, and consequences of the invasion, which marked a turning point in World War II and began the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation. The passage integrates key academic vocabulary such as 'invasion,' 'amphibious,' 'liberation,' and 'strategy,' supporting both content and literacy development. Aligned to HSS 11.7.4 and CCSS.RI.6-8.1, RI.6-8.6, this resource includes a Spanish translation, differentiated reading levels, a glossary, comprehension activities, graphic organizers, and a timeline. Read aloud audio is available for accessibility. This passage is ideal for students developing historical reasoning and analysis skills, and for classrooms seeking standards-based, bilingual social studies resources.

CONTENT PREVIEW

New York, New York. June 6, 1944. Reverend A. Hamilton Nesbitt at the D-day rally in Madison Square.
Source: Library of Congress - Hollem, Howard R.

On June 6, 1944, the Allies launched a massive invasion on the coast of Normandy, France, during World War II. This operation, called D-Day, involved over 156,000 soldiers from the United States, Britain, Canada, and other Allied forces. The goal was to break through German defenses and begin the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation.

The Normandy landings were the largest amphibious military operation in history, meaning troops arrived by sea onto hostile beaches. Planning for D-Day was complex and required careful coordination among different nations and military branches. Commanders used secret codes and deception to convince the Germans the attack would happen elsewhere. This strategy was crucial for achieving surprise and reducing Allied losses.

Despite extensive preparations, the soldiers faced many obstacles on June 6. The beaches were heavily defended with barbed wire, mines, and machine-gun nests. Rough seas and bad weather made landing difficult. Many units landed far from their original targets, causing confusion. However, Allied commanders adapted quickly, using flexible tactics to overcome German resistance.

The cost of the invasion was high. Thousands of Allied soldiers were killed or wounded on the first day. But by the evening, the Allies had secured several beachheads. This success allowed them to bring in more troops, vehicles, and supplies, eventually leading to the breakthrough of German lines in France.

D-Day was a turning point in World War II. The successful invasion forced Germany to fight on two fronts and began the slow process of freeing Europe from Nazi control. The operation required immense bravery, careful planning, and international cooperation. It demonstrated how nations could unite against oppression and changed the course of the war.

Interesting Fact: The term "D-Day" does not stand for "decision day" or "doomsday"—it is a general military term for the day an operation begins.

What date did D-Day take place?

June 6, 1944May 8, 1945July 4, 1942December 7, 1941

Where did the Allied invasion occur?

Normandy, FranceBerlin, GermanyLondon, EnglandRome, Italy

Which countries were involved in D-Day?

U.S., Britain, CanadaGermany, Italy, JapanRussia, Spain, PortugalChina, India, Australia

Why was the invasion important?

It began liberating Western EuropeIt ended World War IIt started the Great DepressionIt created the United Nations

What made the landing difficult?

Bad weather and strong defensesNo German resistanceEasy terrainAllies had more soldiers

What was one strategy used by the Allies?