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Lewis and Clark Expedition — Reading Comprehension

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Standards

HSS 8.4.1
8.8.2
RI.6-8.1
RI.6-8.3

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This comprehensive U.S. History reading passage explores the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806), a pivotal journey led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark after President Thomas Jefferson acquired the Louisiana Purchase. Aligned to HSS 8.4.1, 8.8.2 and CCSS.RI.6-8.1, RI.6-8.3, the passage presents a nuanced look at the goals, challenges, and accomplishments of the Corps of Discovery. Students will analyze the expedition’s impact on American expansion, scientific documentation, and relationships with Native nations. In addition to the main passage, the resource includes a simplified differentiated version, a full Spanish translation, glossary, multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, and graphic organizers. A timeline and a public domain image further support learning. This history reading passage is ideal for developing critical thinking, reading, and historical reasoning skills, and is supported by read aloud audio, accessible Spanish content, and rigorous activities for classroom or independent study.

CONTENT PREVIEW

The Lewis and Clark Expedition was a turning point in United States history. In 1803, President Thomas Jefferson doubled the size of the United States by purchasing the Louisiana Territory from France. However, very little was known about this vast land. To solve this problem, Jefferson sent Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to lead an expedition westward. Their goal was to explore the new territory, map travel routes, and learn about the region's plants, animals, and people.

Setting out in May 1804, Lewis and Clark led a group called the Corps of Discovery. This team included soldiers, boatmen, and later, important guides like Sacagawea, a Shoshone woman. Traveling mostly by river, the expedition faced difficult terrain, unpredictable weather, and the challenge of carrying supplies. The group demonstrated strong cooperation and problem-solving skills in order to survive the journey.

One of their main tasks was documentation. Lewis and Clark made detailed notes about unfamiliar plants, animals, and natural features. They also recorded information about the Native nations they met, such as the Mandan, Nez Perce, and Shoshone. These encounters were complex. While some meetings led to peaceful exchanges and alliances, misunderstandings and cultural differences sometimes resulted in tension.

The exploration also had a scientific purpose. The Corps of Discovery collected specimens and created maps that helped future settlers and scientists. Their observations became some of the first formal records of the American West. However, the expedition’s arrival signaled change for Native nations, as future waves of settlers would transform these lands.

After nearly two and a half years, the expedition returned to St. Louis in September 1806. Their journey had mapped a practical route to the Pacific and increased American knowledge of western geography, plants, and animals. The expedition’s legacy is both a story of discovery and of the complicated beginnings of westward expansion, which brought both opportunity and conflict.

Interesting Fact: The Corps of Discovery traveled more than 8,000 miles and only lost one member during their entire journey.

Who sent Lewis and Clark west?

President JeffersonPresident LincolnGeorge WashingtonBenjamin Franklin

What was the Corps of Discovery?

Lewis and Clark's teamA Native nationA French armyA river

When did the expedition begin?

May 1804July 1776September 1806March 1803

Why did Jefferson send the expedition?

Explore new territoryStart a warFind goldBuild a city

What was a challenge faced?

Difficult terrainPlenty of foodNo riversEasy weather

How did the expedition affect Native nations?