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Route 66: The Road to Hope — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.4.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

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This engaging history reading passage explores the journey along Route 66 during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl era. Students will learn about why families left their homes, what they faced along the way, and how Route 66 became a symbol of hope and new beginnings. The passage uses clear, chronological storytelling, focusing on cause and effect and key figures, while building vocabulary. Aligned to C3 Framework (D2.His.2.3-5, D2.His.4.3-5) and Common Core standards (RI.4.3, RI.4.4, W.4.2), it also features a glossary, Spanish translation, comprehension quiz, writing prompts, timeline, and a graphic organizer. With a relevant public domain image, read aloud audio, and a prompt for a coloring page, this resource helps students connect history to real people and events. Perfect for building literacy skills and historical understanding.

CONTENT PREVIEW

An insignia on College Street in Springfield, Missouri, reminding those who pass that a portion of the historic two-lane U.S. Route 66 still zigs and zags through town.
Source: Library of Congress - Highsmith, Carol M., 1946-

Route 66 was a famous highway that stretched across the United States, from Chicago to California. During the Great Depression, many families lost their farms and homes because of the Dust Bowl. The Dust Bowl was a time when huge dust storms ruined crops on the Great Plains. This forced thousands of people to leave in search of a better life.

Families packed up everything they owned into old cars and trucks. They drove west on Route 66, hoping to find jobs and new beginnings in California. This journey was not easy. The road was long and often very hot. Many cars broke down along the way. People had to be brave and work together to keep going.

Route 66 became known as the Mother Road. John Steinbeck, a famous writer, called it this in his book "The Grapes of Wrath." The name showed how important the highway was to the people who traveled it. For them, Route 66 was more than just a road. It was a path toward hope and a better future.

Along the way, families saw new towns, gas stations, and roadside diners. Some people found help from others who gave food or fixed cars. Everyone on the road shared the same dream of finding work and a safe place to live.

Many of these families were called migrants or refugees. They came from states like Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas. When they reached California, life was not always easy, but many found jobs in fields and farms. Some even helped during World War II by working in factories.

Route 66 stayed important for many years. It showed how people can be strong, work together, and never give up. The story of Route 66 teaches us about hope, courage, and the power of community in hard times.

Interesting Fact: Route 66 is sometimes called "The Main Street of America" because it connected so many towns and cities across the country.

Where did Route 66 start?

ChicagoNew YorkDallasSan Francisco

Why did people leave the Great Plains?

Dust storms ruined farmsWanted to travelTo visit familyFor vacation

What was Route 66's nickname?

Mother RoadDust TrailGolden HighwayFreedom Road

Who called Route 66 the 'Mother Road'?

John SteinbeckHenry FordFranklin RooseveltDorothea Lange

What was a challenge on Route 66?

Cars broke downToo much snowToo many bridgesWild animals

What did families hope to find in California?