The New England Colonies: An Introduction — 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 engaging U.S. history reading passage introduces students to the New England Colonies, offering a clear overview of their founding, key people, and life in the colonies. Highlighting the bravery and unity of early settlers like the Pilgrims and Puritans, it covers essential events such as the founding of Plymouth, the first Thanksgiving, and the development of colonial towns. The passage uses simple language, active voice, and concrete examples to help students understand the cause-and-effect relationships in history. Aligned with C3 and Common Core standards, the resource includes a glossary, timeline, Spanish translation, and comprehension activities such as a quiz, writing prompts, and graphic organizers. A public domain image brings the story to life, and a coloring page prompt is provided for creative engagement. This passage is perfect for building foundational literacy and historical knowledge, and includes read aloud audio and Spanish translation for accessibility.

CONTENT PREVIEW

The New England Colonies were some of the first English settlements in America. Many people came to this area to find freedom and start a new life. The land included present-day Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire.

The Pilgrims were one of the first groups to arrive. In 1620, they sailed across the Atlantic Ocean on a ship called the Mayflower. The Pilgrims wanted to practice their religion in peace. They landed in Plymouth, Massachusetts. The first winter was very hard. Many Pilgrims got sick or died. With help from Native Americans like Squanto, they learned to plant corn and fish. Because of this help, the Pilgrims survived. They celebrated their survival with a feast called the first Thanksgiving.

More people soon followed. The Puritans came to New England in the 1630s. They wanted to build a community based on their beliefs. The Puritans started the Massachusetts Bay Colony. John Winthrop, their leader, called it a "city upon a hill" because he hoped it would be a good example for others. The Puritans made rules for their towns and schools. Everyone worked together to build homes, plant crops, and keep the colony safe.

As the colonies grew, new towns were built. People started to spread out and form other colonies. Connecticut and Rhode Island were started by people who wanted more freedom to make their own laws. In these colonies, leaders like Roger Williams and Thomas Hooker worked for fair treatment and religious freedom.

Living in the New England Colonies was not easy. Winters were cold and long. The land was rocky, so farming was hard. People became skilled at fishing, trading, and building ships. Town meetings were an important part of life. Neighbors would gather to make decisions and solve problems together.

The New England Colonies grew because people worked together. They shared ideas and helped each other. This spirit of unity and hard work helped them survive and build strong communities.

Interesting Fact: Some of the oldest schools and colleges in America, such as Harvard, began in the New England Colonies.

Who were the first group to arrive?

PilgrimsPuritansNative AmericansFrench Settlers

What ship did the Pilgrims sail on?

MayflowerSanta MariaEndeavourDiscovery

Who helped the Pilgrims survive?

Squanto and Native AmericansPuritansFrench settlersSpanish explorers

Why did the Puritans come to New England?

To build a community on beliefsTo find goldTo escape winterTo meet Native Americans

How did colonists solve problems?

Town meetingsMoved awayWrote lettersSent for help

What was the first Thanksgiving?