How the Middle Colonies Were Governed — 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 history reading passage explores how the Middle Colonies of Colonial America—such as New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware—were governed. Students will learn about the different forms of government, key leaders, and important decisions that shaped daily life in these colonies. The passage uses simple language and a clear sequence to support understanding of historical events and cause-and-effect relationships. Activities include a multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, a timeline of key events, and a graphic organizer to deepen comprehension. Spanish translation and read-aloud audio are provided to support diverse learners. This resource aligns with standards D2.His.2.3-5, D2.His.3.3-5, RI.4.3, RI.4.4, and W.4.2, making it perfect for social studies and literacy integration. Keywords include Middle Colonies, colonial government, Pennsylvania, and Colonial America.

CONTENT PREVIEW

2. Historic American Buildings Survey, Frederick D. Nichols, Photographer, 1939 MAIN BUILDING, SOUTH ELEVATION. - Independence Hall Complex, Independence Hall, 500 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, PA
Source: Library of Congress - Nichols, Frederick D.

The Middle Colonies included New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. These colonies were part of British America in the 1600s and 1700s. People from many countries and religions lived there. The way these colonies were governed helped shape the future of the United States.

Each Middle Colony had its own government. In New York and New Jersey, the King of England chose a governor to lead the colony. The governor made laws and kept order. Sometimes, the colonists did not agree with the governor. They wanted a say in how they were ruled.

Pennsylvania was different. William Penn, a Quaker, founded Pennsylvania. He wanted people to have freedom and fair laws. William Penn wrote the “Frame of Government” for Pennsylvania. In his words, "Governments...are made by men and for men." This meant the people should help make the rules. Pennsylvania let colonists elect people to an assembly. The assembly helped make laws and decisions for the colony.

Delaware was once part of Pennsylvania, but it soon had its own assembly. The people in Delaware could choose their leaders, just like in Pennsylvania. The assemblies in these colonies gave the colonists a voice. They could talk about taxes, trade, and other important issues. This helped the colonies run better and kept peace.

Colonists wanted laws that protected their rights. Sometimes, they worked together to solve problems. When conflicts arose, people met in town halls or public squares. They voted on rules and shared their ideas. This system taught people about democracy and fair government. Later, these ideas would help shape the United States government.

The way the Middle Colonies were governed showed the importance of working together. They used assemblies, meetings, and debates to solve problems. Colonists learned that everyone deserves a voice in government. Their bravery and unity helped create a new way of ruling that would last for many years.

Interesting Fact: The Pennsylvania State House, now called Independence Hall, is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776.

Which colonies made up the Middle Colonies?

New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, DelawareVirginia, Georgia, South Carolina, MarylandMassachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New HampshireTexas, California, Florida, Ohio

Who founded Pennsylvania?

William PennGeorge WashingtonBenjamin FranklinKing of England

What year was the Declaration of Independence signed?

1776162014921800

Why did colonists want assemblies?

To have a voice in lawsTo build more housesTo grow more cropsTo travel to England

How were New York and New Jersey governed?

By king-appointed governorsBy farmersBy judgesBy children

What did assemblies do?

Made laws and decisionsCooked mealsFought battlesBuilt ships

The Middle Colonies taught people about democracy. True or false?

TrueFalse