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Ferdinand Magellan: Sailing Around the World — Reading Comprehension

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

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This engaging history reading passage introduces students to Ferdinand Magellan, the brave explorer who led the first voyage to sail around the world. Students will learn about Magellan’s background, his journey across dangerous seas, the challenges his crew faced, and the significance of his voyage for history and exploration. The passage is written in clear, age-appropriate language and includes highlighted vocabulary, a Spanish translation, read aloud audio, and a timeline of key events. Students can check their understanding with a multiple-choice quiz, deepen their critical thinking with writing prompts, and organize their knowledge with a cause-and-effect graphic organizer. This resource aligns with C3 social studies standards and relevant Common Core reading standards, making it ideal for classroom or independent learning about explorers, world history, and the Age of Exploration.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Ferdinand Magellan, 1581 — Ferdinand Magellan.
Source: Library of Congress

Ferdinand Magellan was a Portuguese explorer who changed world history. In 1519, he set out from Spain with five ships and about 270 men. Magellan wanted to find a new way to reach Asia by sailing west, instead of east. He hoped to bring back spices and riches for Spain.

The journey was long and hard. The ships first crossed the Atlantic Ocean to South America. There, Magellan searched for a passage through the land. He found a narrow waterway at the tip of South America. Today, it is called the Strait of Magellan. This passage allowed his ships to enter the Pacific Ocean.

The Pacific Ocean was bigger and more dangerous than anyone had guessed. The sailors faced storms, hunger, and disease. Many men became sick from lack of food and clean water. Some died, but Magellan kept the crew moving forward. He named the new ocean "Pacific" because it seemed peaceful at first.

After months at sea, Magellan’s ships reached the islands now called the Philippines. There, Magellan tried to help a local leader in a battle. Sadly, Magellan was killed in the fight. Even though their captain was lost, the crew did not give up. They chose a new leader and continued the journey home.

Only one ship, called the Victoria, made it back to Spain in 1522. Just 18 men survived to finish the first circumnavigation of the world. This means they sailed completely around the Earth. Their voyage proved that the world is round and that it is possible to sail all the way around it.

Magellan’s expedition changed people’s ideas about the world. It showed the size of the Earth and connected different lands and cultures. The bravery and teamwork of Magellan and his crew helped shape history.

Interesting Fact: The crew on the Victoria was so hungry at times that they ate leather and sawdust to survive.

Who led the first trip around the world?

Ferdinand MagellanChristopher ColumbusAmerigo VespucciMarco Polo

What ocean did Magellan name?

Atlantic OceanPacific OceanIndian OceanArctic Ocean

Where was Magellan killed?

SpainSouth AmericaPhilippinesAfrica

Why did Magellan want to sail west?

Find gold in AmericaReach Asia a new waySee new animalsFind new friends

What did the voyage prove?

Earth is flatEarth is roundSpain is largestAsia is close

What was the main effect of the journey?