Speaking Up: How Citizens Make a Difference — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.5.3-5
D2.CIV.2.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging U.S. history reading passage explores the important role citizens play in shaping modern America, focusing on California and the nation. Students will learn about key events where ordinary people made a big impact, such as voting, peaceful protests, and writing to leaders. The story highlights cause-and-effect relationships and uses clear, accessible language suitable for elementary learners. The passage includes a glossary of key vocabulary words, a reading comprehension quiz, writing prompts, and a timeline of citizen action in history. Graphic organizers help students understand concepts like cause and effect. Full support for Spanish translation and read aloud audio makes this resource accessible for all learners. Aligned with C3 Framework D2.His.5.3-5 and Common Core RI.4.3, RI.4.4, and W.4.2 standards.

CONTENT PREVIEW

[People carrying picket signs protesting against nuclear power and the Potomac Electric Power Company (PEPCO)]
Source: Library of Congress - O'Halloran, Thomas J.

Citizens help shape the United States by speaking up and working together for change. In California and across the country, people take action to make things better. These actions can include voting, joining peaceful marches, or writing letters to leaders.

One important way citizens make a difference is by voting. Voting gives people a voice in who leads their city, state, and country. For example, in 1972, California voters chose to protect the state’s beautiful beaches and parks by supporting new laws. Their votes helped create the California Coastal Commission. This group works to keep the coast clean and safe for everyone.

Sometimes, people gather in peaceful protests to share their ideas. In 1965, farm workers in California, led by Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta, marched for better working conditions. They walked from Delano to Sacramento, the capital, to show leaders they needed help. Their protest led to new laws to protect farm workers. As Chavez said, “We draw our strength from the very despair in which we have been forced to live. We shall endure.”

Citizens also write letters, make phone calls, and attend meetings. In 2006, many California students marched in Los Angeles to support immigrant rights. They wanted fair laws for their families and friends. Their actions showed leaders that students cared about their community.

When people work together, they can solve big problems. They may face challenges and need to be brave. But their actions can bring new laws or improve old ones. This is how democracy grows stronger. Each voice, no matter how small, is important.

Sometimes change is slow. But history shows that citizens in California and the whole country can make a real difference. By voting, protesting, and sharing their ideas, they help shape a better future for all.

Interesting Fact: The California Coastal Commission was created in 1972 after a special vote. Today, it still protects over 1,000 miles of California coastline!

Who led the farm workers in 1965?

Cesar Chavez and Dolores HuertaAbraham LincolnMartin Luther King Jr.George Washington

What was created in 1972?

California Coastal CommissionU.S. Supreme CourtWhite HouseLiberty Bell

Where did students march in 2006?

Los AngelesSacramentoSan FranciscoNew York

Why do citizens vote?

To have a voiceTo get free foodTo travelTo make friends

What did the farm workers want?

Better working conditionsMore holidaysNew uniformsBigger houses

How can change sometimes be described?

SlowInstantAlways easyNot needed