The Constitution and Bill of Rights — Reading Comprehension
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3
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Standards
D2.CIV.2.3-5
D2.CIV.12.3-5
RI.4.1
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
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This learning resource is available in interactive and printable formats. The interactive worksheet can be played online and assigned to students. The Printable PDF version can be downloaded and printed for completion by hand.
This passage explores the creation of the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Students will learn about the problems faced by the new country after the American Revolution, the key figures who helped write the Constitution, and the important rights protected by the Bill of Rights. The passage is written for young readers, using clear language and short sentences, and highlights themes of unity, bravery, and problem-solving. Aligned with the C3 Framework history standards and Common Core ELA standards, this resource includes a reading comprehension quiz, glossary, writing activities, and a timeline of key events. It also features a public domain historical image, read aloud audio, and a full Spanish translation, making it perfect for students learning about American government and their rights as citizens.
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Scene at signing of the Constitution of the United States Source: Library of Congress - Christy, Howard Chandler
The Constitution is the main rulebook for the United States government. After the American Revolution, the new country needed a plan for how to be run. In 1787, leaders from many states met in Philadelphia. These leaders are called the Founding Fathers. They wanted to make a strong but fair government.
The Founding Fathers wrote the Constitution at the Constitutional Convention. The Constitution explains how the government works. It sets up three branches: the Legislative branch (Congress), the Executive branch (the President), and the Judicial branch (the courts). This system makes sure no one part of government has too much power.
Some people worried the Constitution did not protect their rights. To solve this, the Founding Fathers added a list of amendments, or changes. The first ten amendments are called the Bill of Rights. The Bill of Rights protects important freedoms. These include freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to a fair trial.
The Constitution and Bill of Rights have been used for over 230 years. When the country faces new problems, leaders can add more amendments. For example, the thirteenth amendment ended slavery. There are now 27 amendments in total. These changes help keep the government fair and equal for all citizens.
The Constitution and Bill of Rights are important because they protect people’s freedoms. They make sure everyone is treated fairly. People in the United States still use these documents today to protect their rights.
Interesting Fact: The U.S. Constitution is the oldest written national constitution still in use in the world today!
What is the Constitution?
A set of rules for governmentA map of the USAA type of moneyA famous speech
Where was the Constitution written?
PhiladelphiaBostonNew YorkChicago
How many branches does the Constitution set up?
ThreeTwoFourOne
Why did some people want amendments?
To protect rightsTo raise taxesTo start a warTo change the flag
What does the Bill of Rights protect?
Freedoms like speechNew laws onlyThe weatherOnly voting
What happens if new problems come up?
More amendments can be addedIgnore the problemsErase the ConstitutionChange the President
The Constitution is still used today.
TrueFalse
What is an amendment?
A change to the ConstitutionA judgeA speechA branch
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