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New Immigrants and New Jobs — 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 engaging reading passage explores the experiences of new immigrants and the rise of new jobs during the Progressive Era in U.S. history. Students will learn how millions of immigrants arrived between the late 1800s and early 1900s, seeking better lives and opportunities. The passage highlights their journey through Ellis Island, the types of jobs they found in fast-growing cities and factories, and how their hard work helped shape America’s future. Students will also discover key vocabulary, answer comprehension questions, and analyze cause-and-effect relationships using interactive activities. This lesson is aligned with C3 Framework (D2.His.2.3-5, D2.His.3.3-5) and Common Core (RI.4.3, RI.4.4, W.4.2) standards. Includes a timeline, glossary, graphic organizers, and a Spanish translation. Perfect for teaching about the Progressive Era, industrial growth, and the contributions of immigrants to American society. Includes read aloud audio and visual supports for classroom use.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Immigrants, Ellis Island
Source: Library of Congress - Bain, George Grantham, 1865-1944

After 1869, the completion of the transcontinental railroad changed California forever. Trains could now travel all the way from the eastern United States to California. This made it much easier for people to move west. Thousands of newcomers rode trains looking for new lives, farmland, and jobs.

Railroad companies saw an opportunity to make money by selling land and tickets. They created colorful posters and advertisements. These ads promised that California was a paradise, with rich soil for farming, mild weather, and beautiful scenery. Many families from the East, Midwest, and even other countries read about these promises. They dreamed of a better future in California.

The journey west by train was much faster than crossing plains and mountains by wagon. People could travel in days instead of months. Settlers brought their hopes and belongings. They started new towns, planted crops, and built homes along the rail lines. The railroad companies sometimes gave people free or cheap land to encourage them to stay and build.

The new railroad towns quickly grew. As more people arrived, stores, schools, and churches were built. Some towns became cities. California’s population increased rapidly. The state became known for its rich farmland and busy cities.

The railroads also brought workers from other countries. Many Chinese immigrants helped build the tracks. Later, people from Mexico, Japan, and Europe arrived to work on farms and in cities. These groups added to California’s diversity. They brought new foods, languages, and traditions.

Not everyone benefited equally. Sometimes, newcomers faced hard work, unfair treatment, or broken promises. But many people worked together to build better lives for themselves and their families.

The railroads made California a place where people from many backgrounds came together. This changed the state’s culture and economy. Railroads helped connect California to the rest of the country and the world.

Interesting Fact: The transcontinental railroad was finished at Promontory Summit, Utah, in 1869. The famous “Golden Spike” joined the rails, linking East and West.

When was the transcontinental railroad finished?

1869184919001776

Which group helped build the railroad?

Chinese immigrantsPilgrimsSpanish soldiersGold miners

What did railroad companies promise in ads?

California was a paradiseFree gold for allFree train ridesNo work needed

Why did people move to California?

For new jobs and farmlandTo find piratesTo escape the weatherTo visit family

How did railroads change California’s population?

It grew quicklyIt became smallerOnly adults movedPeople left cities

What was one effect of new towns?

More schools and storesFewer peopleNo jobsNo churches