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Industrial Revolution Pollution — 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 reading passage explores the impact of the Industrial Revolution on pollution in the United States, focusing on the Progressive Era. Students will learn how new factories changed American cities, increased air and water pollution, and affected people's daily lives. The passage highlights the bravery and unity of people who worked to solve pollution problems, including child labor reformers, city leaders, and ordinary citizens. It provides clear examples, a cause-and-effect structure, and a positive tone to inspire young learners. The passage aligns with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, supporting both history and reading comprehension. A glossary of key vocabulary words is included, along with a Spanish translation, timeline, and multiple engaging activities. This resource is perfect for building historical knowledge and literacy skills, and also features a relevant public domain image, read aloud audio, and opportunities for students to connect past events with present-day environmental issues.

CONTENT PREVIEW

[Smoke issues from stacks of industrial buildings along river].
Source: Library of Congress - Aumuller, Al

The Industrial Revolution brought big changes to the United States in the late 1800s and early 1900s. New factories made it possible to produce goods quickly and in large amounts. Many people moved to cities for jobs in these factories. But these changes also created serious problems, especially with pollution.

Factories burned coal to run their machines. The smoke from the coal rose into the sky and filled the air with thick, black clouds. In some cities, the air became so dirty that people said the sky looked as dark as night. This air pollution made it hard to breathe and caused many health problems, especially for children and older people.

Factories also dumped waste and chemicals into nearby rivers. This water contamination killed fish and made the water unsafe to drink or use. Cities grew crowded and dirty. Streets were filled with garbage, and many families lived in small, unhealthy apartments. These poor living conditions led to sickness and disease.

People started to notice the dangers of environmental damage. Newspapers wrote stories about smoke and dirty water. Reformers, called Progressives, worked to make cities cleaner and safer. They asked factory owners to build taller smokestacks or use cleaner fuel. Some cities began to clean up rivers and build better sewer systems. New laws were made to protect public health and the environment.

Over time, these changes helped improve life in American cities. Factories found better ways to make goods without creating as much pollution. Citizens became more aware of the need to protect the air and water. The problems of the Industrial Revolution taught people that progress must include care for the environment.

Interesting Fact: In 1929, Pittsburgh was so smoky that streetlights had to be turned on during the day!

What powered most factories?

CoalWindWater wheelsSunlight

What did factories dump into rivers?

FoodWaste and chemicalsClean waterFresh fish

Who worked to clean up cities?

ProgressivesBankersFarmersInventors

What was one effect of air pollution?

Clear skiesHard to breatheFaster trainsMore jobs

Why were living conditions unhealthy?

Too many factoriesSmall, crowded homesClean water everywherePeople worked less

What did new laws try to protect?