Sending a Message to the King: The First Continental Congress Takes Action — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.1.4-5
D2.HIS.2.4-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging U.S. history reading passage explores the First Continental Congress and its role in the events leading up to the American Revolution. Students will learn about how colonial leaders gathered in Philadelphia to address unfair British laws, the creation of the Declaration of Rights and Grievances, and the important decision to send a message to King George III. The passage is structured as a chronological narrative with clear cause-and-effect relationships, ideal for building foundational literacy skills while teaching key historical content. Included are a glossary of important terms, a timeline of major events, and activities such as a multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, and a graphic organizer. This resource is aligned with C3 Framework history standards and Common Core ELA standards. It also features a read aloud audio option and a full Spanish translation, making it accessible for all learners.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Flickr - USCapitol - The First Continental Congress, 1774 — The First Continental Congress, 1774" by USCapitol/
Source: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

The First Continental Congress met in Philadelphia in September 1774. Twelve colonies sent leaders to discuss unfair British laws. People were upset because the British Parliament had passed new taxes and rules. They wanted to make their own choices and be treated fairly.

Each colony chose men called delegates. These delegates traveled a long way to attend. Some famous delegates were George Washington, John Adams, and Patrick Henry. The delegates met in secret to talk about what to do. Patrick Henry spoke bravely, saying, "I am not a Virginian, but an American." This showed unity among the colonies.

The delegates made a list of problems called grievances. They wrote down all the things they thought were unfair. Next, they created the Declaration of Rights and Grievances. This paper explained what rights the colonists should have. It also said how the British had broken those rights. The Congress decided to send this message to King George III in England.

They hoped the king would listen and change the laws. The delegates agreed to stop buying British goods until the laws were changed. This was called a boycott. The Congress also planned to meet again the next year if things did not get better.

The First Continental Congress was important because it showed the colonies could work together. They were brave and peaceful at first. But if the king did not listen, they were ready to take stronger action. The Congress helped start the path to American independence.

As the delegates finished, they sent their message with hope. They wanted peace, but they also wanted to be free.

Interesting Fact: The Congress met in Carpenter's Hall, a building that still stands in Philadelphia today.

Where did the First Continental Congress meet?

PhiladelphiaBostonNew YorkLondon

When did the Congress meet?

September 1774July 1776May 1787October 1492

Who was the king the message was sent to?

King George IIIKing Henry VIIIKing Louis XVIKing James I

Why did the colonies send delegates?

To discuss unfair British lawsTo ask for moneyTo visit familyTo build new homes

What was the boycott?

Stop buying British goodsStart a warGo on vacationWrite more letters