Rosie the Riveter: Women Go to Work — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.1.5
D2.HIS.2.5
D2.HIS.3.5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging U.S. history reading passage explores the story of Rosie the Riveter and the crucial role women played on the home front during World War II. Students will learn how American women stepped into new jobs in factories, building airplanes and ships while men fought overseas. The passage highlights key events, important vocabulary, and the significance of unity and bravery during challenging times. Aligned with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, this resource includes a glossary, comprehension quiz, writing prompts, timeline, and graphic organizer. It also features a Spanish translation and read aloud audio for accessibility. Perfect for building background knowledge and reading skills while connecting past events to present-day themes of teamwork and perseverance.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"We Can Do It! NARA 535413 - Restoration 2" by J. Howard Miller.
Source: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

During World War II, the United States needed more workers than ever before. Many men went to fight in the war. This left factories and shipyards without enough people to make supplies for the soldiers. The country needed airplanes, tanks, and ships. Women across America answered the call to help.

At first, some people thought women could not do these tough jobs. Most women had never worked in factories before. But the need was so great that women soon started working in jobs that had always been done by men. They learned to use heavy machines. They wore coveralls, gloves, and sturdy shoes to stay safe.

One of the most famous symbols of these women was "Rosie the Riveter." Rosie was not a real person. She was an idea—a strong woman who could do any job. Posters showed Rosie with her sleeves rolled up and her fist in the air. The poster read, "We Can Do It!" This message gave hope and pride to women everywhere.

Rosie represented millions of women who built airplanes, ships, and weapons. They riveted metal parts together. They made uniforms and packed food for the troops. Their hard work helped the United States win the war. Women proved they were just as skilled and brave as men.

After the war ended in 1945, many men returned home. Factories asked women to leave their jobs. Some women went back to their homes, but many wanted to keep working. They had learned new skills and gained confidence. The story of Rosie the Riveter changed how people viewed women forever.

Rosie the Riveter is still remembered today. She stands for bravery, teamwork, and the power to solve problems. Her story shows how people can come together and help their country in times of need.

Interesting Fact: More than six million women worked in factories during World War II. Many were doing these jobs for the first time in their lives!

Who was Rosie the Riveter?

A symbol for working womenA famous soldierA ship builderA real woman named Rosie

What did women build during WWII?

Planes, ships, and weaponsSchoolsBridgesHouses

What year did WWII end?

1945193919411950

Why did women start working in factories?

Because men went to warTo become famousFor funTo visit friends

What did the "We Can Do It!" poster show?

A strong woman with her fist upA new airplaneA group of soldiersA busy shipyard

How did women help the U.S. win the war?

By making supplies for soldiersBy joining the armyBy writing lettersBy selling food