The Lewis and Clark Expedition — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

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

About This Reader

This history reading passage explores the journey of Lewis and Clark, two brave explorers sent by President Thomas Jefferson to explore the lands gained through the Louisiana Purchase. Students will learn about the purpose of their mission, key events along the expedition, important people like Sacagawea, and the challenges faced by the team. The passage highlights themes of bravery, teamwork, and discovery. It features a clear timeline, glossary, comprehension quiz, writing activities, and a graphic organizer to support learning. A Spanish translation and read aloud audio are included for accessibility. The passage and activities align with C3 Framework D2.His.2.3-5, D2.His.3.3-5, RI.4.3, RI.4.4, W.4.2 standards, supporting both U.S. history and Common Core literacy goals. Perfect for building foundational knowledge about early American exploration and the growth of the new nation.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"Lewis and clark-expedition" by Charles Marion Russell / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

In 1803, the United States bought a huge area of land called the Louisiana Purchase. President Thomas Jefferson wanted to know more about this new land. He asked two men, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, to lead a special trip. Their job was to explore the land, meet Native American tribes, and find a path to the Pacific Ocean.

Lewis and Clark started their journey in May 1804. Their team was called the Corps of Discovery. They traveled up the Missouri River by boat. The trip was hard. There were strong rivers, thick forests, and high mountains. The weather could be very hot or very cold. The team had to work together every step of the way.

Along the journey, the explorers met many Native American tribes. Some tribes helped them by showing safe trails or sharing food. The team was joined by a Native American woman named Sacagawea. She helped by guiding the team and talking to other tribes. Her baby traveled with them, too. Sacagawea’s help made the journey safer and friendlier.

Lewis and Clark kept careful notes. They wrote about new animals, plants, and maps. President Jefferson wanted to know, “What are the rivers like?” and “How many people live there?” Lewis and Clark wrote, “We have discovered many animals never seen before.” Their notes helped others learn about the land and its people.

After months of travel, the team finally saw the Pacific Ocean in November 1805. They were tired but proud. They had traveled over 8,000 miles. In the spring of 1806, the team started their trip home. They returned as heroes. People were excited to hear their stories.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition helped the United States learn about its new lands. It showed that teamwork, bravery, and help from others could solve big problems. The maps and notes from their trip helped more people move west.

Interesting Fact: Lewis and Clark brought back over 100 animal and 176 plant samples that had never been seen by scientists before.

Who was President during the expedition?

Thomas JeffersonGeorge WashingtonAbraham LincolnJohn Adams

When did Lewis and Clark start their trip?

May 18041803Spring 1806November 1805

What was the group called?

Corps of DiscoveryTeam AmericaWestward HeroesRiver Explorers

Why did Jefferson send Lewis and Clark?

To explore new landsTo fight a warTo find goldTo build homes

What helped the team most?

Teamwork and SacagaweaTraveling aloneStaying in one placeHaving many boats

What did Lewis and Clark write about?