Unveiling the Dark Side of Freedom: Slavery in Colonial America

Confront the often-overlooked chapter of slavery in early America with this engaging reading comprehension worksheet! Students will delve into the origins and brutalities of this system, gaining a deeper understanding of:

• The Roots of Colonial Slavery: Explore the economic forces that fueled the Triangle Trade and the forced migration of enslaved Africans.
• The Horrors of the Middle Passage: Analyze a primary source to grasp the unimaginable suffering endured by enslaved people during the voyage across the Atlantic.
• A Life of Bondage: Uncover the harsh realities of enslaved people's lives, from forced labor to family separation.
• The Long Shadow of Slavery: Examine the enduring legacy of slavery on American society, including racial inequality and the fight for justice.

What's Included:

• A captivating reading passage that breaks down complex topics into clear language.
• A primary source excerpt from Olaudah Equiano, a formerly enslaved person, offering a firsthand perspective on the Middle Passage.
• A variety of comprehension questions including multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer to assess reading comprehension, critical thinking, and analysis skills.
• A detailed answer key to save you time and ensure accurate grading.

Learning Objectives:

• Students will identify the key factors that led to the rise of slavery in colonial America.
• Students will analyze the impact of the Triangle Trade on enslaved Africans.
• Students will evaluate the living conditions and hardships faced by enslaved people.
• Students will understand the long-term consequences of slavery on American society.

Common Core Standards Addressed:

• RI.5.1: Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.
• RI.5.2: Determine the central ideas or author's purpose of a text and explain how it is supported by key details.
• RI.5.3: Explain the relationships or connections between ideas or events in a text.
• RI.5.7: Draw information from all features of a text (e.g., title, headings, illustrations, diagrams) when reading to learn or perform a task.

Content Discussion Points:

• How did the demand for resources in Europe contribute to the rise of slavery?
• What is the significance of Olaudah Equiano's account of the Middle Passage?
• How did enslaved people resist their oppression?
• Why is it important to learn about the dark side of American history?

Ready to unlock your students' critical thinking potential? Explore my store for a treasure trove of reading comprehensions that tackle diverse themes and inspire insightful discussions. From the intricacies of the Civil War to the marvels of scientific discovery, there's something for every classroom!

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