Industrial Revolution Schools (shows educational change) — Reading Comprehension

During the Industrial Revolution, life in the United States began to change quickly. Many families moved from farms to cities. People worked in factories and lived in crowded neighborhoods. As cities grew, leaders saw that children needed better schools.

Before this time, not all children went to school. Some had to work in factories or help at home. Schools were small and often in one room. A single teacher taught many ages. There were few books and supplies. Not all teachers had special training.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, leaders called reformers wanted to improve schools. They believed education could help all children succeed. Reformers like Jane Addams and John Dewey spoke up for new ideas. John Dewey said, "If we teach today as we taught yesterday, we rob our children of tomorrow."

New laws said that children had to go to school. These laws were called compulsory education laws. They made sure that every child could learn reading, writing, and math. Schools became larger and had more teachers. Special training for teachers became important. Classrooms had blackboards, desks, and more books.

Lessons changed, too. Students learned about science, history, and health. Some schools even had art and music. Children learned how to work together and solve problems. School became a place for everyone, not just the rich. Boys and girls from all backgrounds could learn side by side.

School days became longer. There were more grades and students were grouped by age. Some schools started offering lunch. In cities, schools helped children who spoke different languages learn English. Many students felt proud to finish each grade and move up.

These changes helped the country grow. More people could read and write. Many children dreamed of new jobs when they grew up. The changes in schools during the Progressive Era made a difference for millions of American children.

Interesting Fact: By 1918, every state in the U.S. had laws that required children to go to school.

Who wanted to improve schools?

What did compulsory laws require?

By what year did all states require school?

Why did schools become larger?

What was a result of new education laws?

What did John Dewey want?

Teachers had special training. True or false?

What does 'compulsory' mean?