Rationing and Life on the Home Front — Reading Comprehension

During World War II, people in the United States faced many changes. One big change was rationing. The government limited how much food, gas, and other items families could buy. This helped make sure soldiers had enough supplies to fight overseas.

Each family received ration books with stamps. People used the stamps to buy things like sugar, meat, and shoes. When the stamps were gone, families had to wait until the next month. This system helped everyone share fairly. Mary, a young girl at the time, said, "We learned to use less and help more."

Because of rationing, families found new ways to get what they needed. Many planted victory gardens. These small gardens grew vegetables like carrots and beans. Neighbors helped each other plant and harvest food. Children collected scrap metal for the war effort. People even saved cooking fat to help make supplies for the army.

Life on the home front was not easy. But Americans showed unity and bravery. They worked together to solve problems. Posters reminded everyone, "Do with less—so they'll have enough!"

When the war ended, rationing stopped. People celebrated and remembered how working together helped win the war.

Interesting Fact: Some families used recipes called "wartime meals" that needed less sugar and meat during rationing.

What did rationing limit?

Who received ration books?

What did children collect?

Why did families plant victory gardens?

How did rationing help soldiers?

What did posters remind people to do?

Rationing ended after the war. True or false?

What does unity mean?