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Traveling the Western Trail — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.3.3-5
D2.HIS.14.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

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This engaging U.S. history reading passage explores the journey west after the Louisiana Purchase, focusing on the challenges, adventures, and bravery of Americans traveling new trails. Students learn about the Louisiana Purchase, Lewis and Clark's expedition, and the daily life of pioneers heading toward new lands. The passage highlights important historical events and uses accessible language for learners. Included activities support comprehension, vocabulary development, and critical thinking, aligning with C3 Framework and Common Core standards. Features include a glossary, multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, a timeline, and a graphic organizer. Read aloud audio and a full Spanish translation make this resource accessible for diverse classrooms. Perfect for teaching foundational U.S. history and literacy skills.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Conestoga wagon on Oregon Trail reenactment 1961 — "Conestoga wagon on Oregon Trail"./ Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

The Lewis and Clark Expedition was one of the greatest journeys in U.S. history. In 1804, two leaders, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, set out from St. Louis with a group called the Corps of Discovery. Their mission was to explore the land just bought from France, known as the Louisiana Purchase. President Thomas Jefferson wanted them to find a water route to the Pacific Ocean and to map the new territory.

The group traveled up the wide Missouri River in boats. The river was rough, and sometimes the men had to pull the boats by hand. They faced cold weather, strong currents, and dangerous animals. Still, they moved west, determined to complete their mission.

As the expedition crossed the Great Plains, they met many Native American tribes. One important helper was Sacagawea, a Shoshone woman who joined the group. She spoke several Native languages and helped the explorers talk with other tribes. She also showed them which plants were safe to eat and helped them find their way.

The journey became very hard when the team reached the Rocky Mountains. The mountains were steep and covered with snow. The Corps had to hike for days in freezing weather. Sacagawea and other Native Americans helped them find food and safe paths through the mountains.

After months of travel, the group finally reached the Pacific Coast in November 1805. They had traveled over 8,000 miles, facing many dangers but never giving up. The team mapped the land, wrote about new animals and plants, and made peaceful contact with many tribes.

The return trip was also difficult, but Lewis and Clark brought back important information. Their maps and notes helped other Americans move west. The expedition showed the strength and teamwork of people working together for a big goal.

Interesting Fact: Lewis and Clark’s dog, Seaman, traveled the entire journey with them and was a loyal member of the team!

Who led the expedition?

Lewis and ClarkGeorge WashingtonBenjamin FranklinThomas Jefferson

What river did the team travel up?

Missouri RiverMississippi RiverColorado RiverOhio River

Who helped the group talk to tribes?

SacagaweaThomas JeffersonGeorge WashingtonBenjamin Franklin

Why did Lewis and Clark explore the new land?

To find a water routeTo build housesTo start a warTo buy more land

How did the expedition help America?

Made maps and notesBuilt schoolsFought in a battleBought more land

What was one big challenge faced?