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

France Helps America Win Independence — Reading Comprehension

No ratings yet|

Premium Resource

Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.3.3-5
D2.HIS.5.3-5RI.4.3
RI.4.4
RI.5.3
RI.5.4

Rate this resource

Send Feedback / Report an Issue

About This Reader

This engaging history reading passage explores how France helped America win independence during the American Revolution, aligning with the C3 Framework and Common Core ELA standards. Students will discover the causes, key figures like George Washington and King Louis XVI, and the effect of French support on the war's outcome. The passage uses clear language and a cause-and-effect structure to build literacy skills while teaching important U.S. history content. Included are interactive multiple-choice and writing activities, a glossary of key terms, a timeline of major events, and a Spanish translation for bilingual learning. An authentic public domain image and read aloud audio enhance understanding. This resource is perfect for building foundational knowledge about international alliances and their role in shaping American independence.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Miss Wills, her staff and French help in front of the American Red Cross line-of-communication Canteen at Is-sur-Tille.
Source: Library of Congress - Library of Congress

The night of December 25, 1776, was cold and dark. The American Revolution was not going well for the Continental Army. Many soldiers were tired and hungry. Some had no shoes, and hope was slipping away. George Washington, the leader of the army, knew something needed to change.

Washington planned a bold move. He decided to lead his troops across the icy Delaware River. The goal was to surprise the enemy, the Hessian soldiers, who were camped in Trenton, New Jersey. It was a risky plan because the river was wide and filled with chunks of ice. The weather was freezing, and it was snowing hard. But Washington believed a surprise attack could turn the war around.

On Christmas night, the soldiers quietly climbed into boats. Rowers pushed the boats through the icy water. Some men wrapped rags around their feet to stay warm. The crossing took all night. By early morning, everyone had reached the New Jersey side of the river.

Once on land, Washington’s men marched to Trenton. The snow and cold made the march slow and hard. Some soldiers left bloody footprints in the snow. But they did not give up. When they arrived, they attacked the Hessian camp by surprise. The enemy was not ready and quickly surrendered.

This victory at Trenton gave the Continental Army new hope. Many soldiers who thought about leaving decided to stay. People across the colonies heard about Washington’s success. It showed them that the American cause was not lost. More men joined the army, and the spirit of freedom grew stronger.

Washington’s decision to cross the Delaware was a turning point in the American Revolution. It showed the importance of bravery, leadership, and teamwork. The victory at Trenton helped save the Revolution when it almost failed.

Interesting Fact: The famous painting “Washington Crossing the Delaware” was created many years later by Emanuel Leutze in 1851.

When did Washington cross the Delaware?

December 25, 1776July 4, 1776January 1, 1777October 31, 1776

Who led the Continental Army?

George WashingtonThomas JeffersonBenjamin FranklinJohn Adams

Where did the surprise attack happen?

TrentonBostonPhiladelphiaNew York

Why did Washington plan a surprise attack?

To change the war's courseFor funTo find suppliesTo escape the enemy

How did the victory at Trenton help?

Gave new hopeEnded the warLost more soldiersMade more enemies

What was one problem crossing the river?