Vietnamese, Korean, and Indian Families Build New Lives — Reading Comprehension

Premium Resource

Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.14.3-5
D2.HIS.16.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging U.S. History reading passage tells the inspiring story of Vietnamese, Korean, and Indian families who moved to the United States and built new lives, especially in California. Students will learn about the reasons these families left their home countries, the challenges they faced, and how they contributed to American communities through hard work, traditions, and unity. The passage highlights key vocabulary, chronological events, and cause-and-effect relationships, supporting C3 Framework and Common Core standards. Accompanied by a read aloud audio and Spanish translation, it is designed for young readers to build literacy, cultural awareness, and historical understanding. Activities include a glossary, timeline, comprehension quiz, writing prompts, and graphic organizers for classroom learning.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"Eloy, Pinal County, Arizona. Photographers also migrate with the cotton pickers. Saturday afternoon . . . - NARA - 522282" by Dorothea Lange / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

Many Vietnamese, Korean, and Indian families moved to the United States in the late 1900s. They wanted safety, new jobs, and a better life for their children. California became home to many of these families.

Some families left their countries because of war or danger. Vietnamese families came after the Vietnam War ended in 1975. Many left quickly, hoping to find peace and freedom in America. One Vietnamese man said, "We came here to give our children hope."

Korean families also moved for new chances. Some left South Korea after hard times in the 1960s and 1970s. They wanted to start new businesses and send their children to good schools. Indian families moved for jobs and education, especially after the 1965 immigration law changed. This law allowed more people from Asia to come to America.

When these families arrived, life was not easy. They learned a new language and worked hard to earn money. Some lived with many family members in small homes. They missed foods and holidays from home. But they did not give up. Parents worked long hours. Children studied hard in school. Everyone helped each other.

Over time, these families became part of their new neighborhoods. They opened stores and restaurants that shared their cultures. Vietnamese pho, Korean kimchi, and Indian samosas became favorite foods for many Americans. Families celebrated special days, like the Lunar New Year and Diwali, with their friends and neighbors.

These families also helped their new communities. They started groups to teach their traditions. Many joined in city fairs and cultural festivals to show their music, dances, and crafts. Their stories show the power of hope and courage.

Interesting Fact: The city of San Jose, California, has one of the largest Vietnamese communities outside Vietnam.

Why did many families move to America?

Safety and better lifeTo visit familyFor vacationTo see snow

Which year did many Vietnamese families arrive?

1975198519602000

What law helped Indian families move?

1965 law changeNew Year lawSchool lawVoting law

What is one food shared by Vietnamese families?

PhoKimchiSamosaPizza

Why did families open stores and restaurants?

To share their culturesTo play gamesTo buy carsTo learn English

How did children help their families?