The Governor’s Job: Leading the State — Reading Comprehension

Premium Resource

Grades

Standards

D2.CIV.1.3-5
D2.CIV.2.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This reading passage introduces students to the important job of the governor in California. Students will learn how the governor leads the state, proposes new laws, and works with others to solve problems. The passage uses simple language, short sentences, and a clear sequence to help students build both historical understanding and literacy skills. Key vocabulary is highlighted and defined in a glossary. The passage aligns with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, making it perfect for classrooms focused on civics and history. Included are a multiple-choice quiz, writing activities, a timeline, and a graphic organizer for deeper comprehension. Students will also find a Spanish translation and an engaging fact. This resource is suitable for history lessons about modern American government, especially in California, and features read aloud audio and a Spanish translation for accessibility.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"Earl Warren 1966-07-04" by Moshe Pridan.
Source: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

The governor is the leader of a state, like California. The governor is elected by the people. This means all adults in the state vote to choose who will lead them. The job of the governor is very important. The governor helps make sure the state runs smoothly and fairly.

Every day, the governor makes many decisions. The governor works at the State Capitol, often in a city called Sacramento. There, the governor meets with groups of people. These people might be lawmakers, teachers, or workers. The governor listens to their ideas and problems. Then, the governor decides on the best ways to help everyone in the state.

One big job of the governor is to suggest new laws. Laws are rules that help keep people safe and treat everyone fairly. If the governor thinks a new law is needed, they can ask lawmakers to write it. But the law does not become official right away. First, lawmakers must agree. Then, the governor signs the law to make it real.

The governor also makes a budget. A budget is a plan for how to spend the state’s money. The governor decides how much money will go to schools, roads, parks, and more. This helps make sure money is used wisely. The governor also picks people to lead important state offices, like health and safety.

In times of trouble, the governor must act quickly. For example, if there is a big fire or flood, the governor helps bring help to people in need. The governor works with police, fire departments, and other helpers. The governor’s job is to protect everyone in the state.

Some governors have made history. For example, Earl Warren was a governor of California in the 1940s. He worked to make schools better and make laws fair for all. In 2019, Gavin Newsom became governor and said, “We will not walk away from the future.” Each governor tries to solve problems and bring people together.

The governor cannot do the job alone. The governor needs help from lawmakers and the people. When everyone works together, the state is stronger and happier.

Interesting Fact: California’s first governor took office in 1849, before California even became a state!

Who leads the state of California?

The governorThe mayorThe presidentThe teacher

Where does the governor usually work?

State CapitolSchoolPolice stationMuseum

What does a budget help with?

Spending state money wiselyMaking new gamesWriting booksBuilding only parks

Why does the governor work with lawmakers?

To make new lawsTo bake a cakeTo draw picturesTo mow lawns

What happens after lawmakers agree on a law?

Governor signs itIt is thrown awayIt becomes a gameIt is forgotten

What is one thing the governor does in emergencies?