The First People of California: 9,000 Years of History — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.1.3-5
D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging reading passage explores the history of the first people of California, focusing on Native Californians before European contact. Students will learn about the daily life, culture, and survival skills of indigenous peoples, including their use of natural resources and the importance of family and community. The passage features a clear, chronological narrative and highlights cause-and-effect relationships. Activities include a glossary, timeline, multiple-choice quiz, and writing prompts to help students connect past and present. The resource is aligned to C3 Framework and Common Core RI and W standards. It includes read aloud audio and a Spanish translation, making it accessible for a wide range of learners. Perfect for building historical understanding and literacy skills, this passage and its activities provide an excellent introduction to the rich history of California's first people.

CONTENT PREVIEW

[3 scenes of California; "A Native Californian" (cowboy in Spanish dress), "A California miner", and a view of Vallejo, California].
Source: Library of Congress

The first people lived in California more than 9,000 years ago. They are called Native Californians. These groups came here long before there were roads, cities, or cars. California was filled with rivers, lakes, forests, and mountains. These early people learned how to survive in many different places.

Native Californians used the land to help them live. They fished in rivers and the ocean. They hunted animals such as deer and rabbits. They picked acorns, berries, and plants. These foods were very important. People worked together in groups called tribes. Each tribe had its own way of life. They built homes from wood, grass, or reeds. Some groups lived near the coast. Others lived in valleys or mountains.

Family was at the center of life. Elders taught children how to gather food and make tools. They shared stories about the world and their people. These stories are called legends. Legends helped children learn right from wrong. "We keep the old ways alive," said one elder.

Native Californians were very skilled. They made baskets out of plants. Some baskets could even hold water! They carved canoes from logs to travel on rivers. They made tools from stones and animal bones. These tools helped them hunt and build. They used fire to clear land and help plants grow back stronger. This helped animals return to the area, too.

Many tribes traded with each other. They traded shells, obsidian, and food. This helped them get what they needed. Sometimes, tribes gathered for big celebrations. These events were called ceremonies. People danced, sang, and gave thanks for nature’s gifts.

Life changed with the seasons. In spring and summer, families moved to find food. In winter, they stayed in warmer homes. Each season brought new jobs and adventures. Working together made their lives better and safer.

Native Californians lived here for thousands of years before any Europeans arrived. They cared for the land and each other. Their skills and stories are still important in California today.

Interesting Fact: Some California baskets are so tightly woven that they can even hold water!

How long ago did the first people live in California?

Over 9,000 years ago1,000 years ago500 years ago100 years ago

What did Native Californians use to make baskets?

PlantsMetalPlasticGlass

What did families do in spring and summer?

Moved to find foodBuilt citiesTraveled to EuropeWent to school

Why did Native Californians use fire?

To clear land and help plantsTo cook plasticTo build housesTo scare animals away

How did tribes get things they needed?

By trading with other tribesBy buying from storesBy ordering onlineBy flying planes

What is the main reason for ceremonies?