U.S. Imperialism Reading Comprehension Bundle 10 Worksheets on Historical Events

U.S. Imperialism Reading Comprehension Bundle 10 Worksheets on Historical Events

U.S. Imperialism Reading Comprehension Bundle: 10 Worksheets on Key Historical Events and Themes

Dive deep into the rise of U.S. imperialism with this comprehensive reading comprehension bundle that covers 10 key events in American history. This bundle provides high school history teachers with a valuable resource for teaching U.S. expansion, foreign policy, and the ethical dilemmas of imperialism. Each worksheet includes a well-researched passage, multiple-choice questions, matching exercises, fill-in-the-blank activities, and short-answer questions—all complete with answer keys. Plus, every worksheet features a primary source analysis to encourage critical thinking and engagement with historical documents.

What’s Included:
"The Philippine War: U.S. Foreign Expansion and Its Impact"

Covers U.S. expansion into the Philippines, the brutal tactics used, and the consequences for both the U.S. and the Filipino population.

"Annexation of Hawaii: America’s Step Toward Global Dominance"

Examines the U.S.-backed overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy and the effects of annexation on indigenous Hawaiian culture and governance.

"The Sinking of the USS Maine: Catalyst for the Spanish-American War"
Analyzes how the USS Maine explosion led to the Spanish-American War, fueled by media exaggeration and misinformation.

"The Spanish-American War: America’s Path to Global Power"
Explores U.S. interventions in Cuba and the Philippines and the consequences of U.S. imperialism in the aftermath of the war.

"Yellow Journalism: How the Press Fueled the Spanish-American War"
Investigates how sensationalized reporting in the U.S. media influenced public opinion and helped drive the country to war.

"The Rough Riders: Theodore Roosevelt’s Volunteer Cavalry in the Spanish-American War"
Discusses the romanticized history of the Rough Riders and how their actions were glorified at the expense of the local Cuban population.

"Big Stick Diplomacy: Theodore Roosevelt and U.S. Foreign Policy"
Delves into Roosevelt’s use of military intimidation in Latin America and the impact of U.S. dominance over smaller nations.

"The Panama Canal: Engineering a Path to U.S. Global Dominance"

Covers the U.S. acquisition of the Panama Canal, focusing on the questionable ethics of U.S. intervention and the exploitation of labor.

"The Open Door Policy: U.S. Trade Expansion in Asia"
Examines the U.S. promotion of trade in China while disregarding Chinese sovereignty, with a focus on the long-term consequences of economic domination.

"U.S. Involvement in China: The Boxer Rebellion and Beyond"
Analyzes U.S. intervention in the Boxer Rebellion, the imposition of reparations, and the exploitation of China by foreign powers.

Key Features:

Primary source analysis in each worksheet helps students develop skills in interpreting historical documents and understanding the perspectives of the time.
Variety of question types: multiple-choice, matching, fill-in-the-blank, and short-answer questions for comprehensive review and assessment.
Answer keys included for easy grading and review.
No visuals required, making these worksheets accessible for remote learning or independent study.
Guided reading sections that dive deep into the ethical issues surrounding U.S. foreign policy and imperialism.

Learning Objectives:

Analyze key moments in U.S. imperialism and its impact on global power dynamics.
Understand the ethical dilemmas and consequences of U.S. expansion for indigenous populations and other nations.
Develop skills in reading comprehension, primary source analysis, and critical thinking.
Engage in discussions about the influence of media, foreign policy, and military interventions.

A Great Tool For:

Sub plans that encourage independent learning and critical thinking.
Deeper learning for students who want to explore U.S. history and foreign policy in greater detail.
Review sessions before exams on U.S. history, imperialism, or media studies.
Use in AP U.S. History classes or World History courses exploring imperialism and global interactions.

Common Core Standards Covered:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.9: Integrate information from diverse sources into a coherent understanding of an event.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Perfect For:

High school U.S. History or World History classes
AP U.S. History
Government or Media Studies units focusing on the ethics of media influence and foreign intervention

Support a fellow educator and get rewarded! Purchase this resource, leave a review, and earn TeachShare credits you can use on any product on the platform. Your feedback helps others and benefits you too!"

$11.40

$5.89

Subjects

Grades

Resource Type

Open Door Policy US Expansionism Primary Source Reading Comprehension Worksheet

By More Lessons Less Planning

The Open Door Policy: U.S. Trade Expansion in China - History Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Help your students dive into one of the most significant moments in U.S. foreign policy with this engaging reading comprehension worksheet focusing on The Open Door Policy and U.S. trade expansion in China. This resource allows students to explore the complexities of U.S.-China relations, economic imperialism, and the impact of foreign powers on China's sovereignty at the turn of the 20th century.

In this worksheet, students will gain insight into:

The motivations behind Secretary of State John Hay’s Open Door Policy, which aimed to ensure equal trade access for foreign nations while safeguarding U.S. economic interests in China.
The Boxer Rebellion, a nationalist uprising that emerged in response to foreign exploitation and control, and how it shaped the aftermath of the Open Door Policy.
The long-term consequences of U.S. involvement in China and how this policy set the stage for future global interactions.

What’s Included:

Multiple-choice questions to check students' understanding of key events and concepts.
Matching activities to reinforce important figures, terms, and events.
Fill-in-the-blank exercises to solidify essential knowledge.
Short-answer questions to encourage critical thinking and deeper analysis of U.S. foreign policy.
Primary source analysis of John Hay's Open Door Notes (1899), challenging students to think critically about the U.S.’s role in international trade and China's response to foreign influence.

This resource is designed to challenge students with complex themes while developing their critical reading skills. It's a perfect tool for sparking class discussions, individual work, or even substitute plans.

Learning Objectives:

Analyze the motivations and effects of the Open Door Policy in U.S.-China relations.
Evaluate the implications of foreign powers on China's sovereignty during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Understand the consequences of the Open Door Policy for China, the U.S., and the broader region.
Connect U.S. trade policies to the rise of anti-foreign sentiment and nationalist movements in China.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas of a source and provide an accurate summary.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Courses This Resource Is Perfect For:

U.S. History (High School)
AP World History
World History (Grades 9-12)
Social Studies (Grades 9-12)

This worksheet offers deeper learning and is ideal for sparking classroom discussion or as a sub plan. Your students will explore U.S. foreign policy, trade, and the complexities of imperialism during a pivotal time in history.

$1.14

Panama Canal U.S. Expansionism Primary Source Reading Comprehension Worksheet

By More Lessons Less Planning

Product Title:
The Panama Canal: Engineering a Path to U.S. Global Dominance - History Reading Comprehension Worksheet
Item Description:
Dive into one of the most significant engineering marvels of the 20th century with The Panama Canal: Engineering a Path to U.S. Global Dominance.

This reading comprehension worksheet offers students an in-depth look at the construction of the Panama Canal and the pivotal role it played in shaping U.S. foreign policy and global influence. While students explore the success of the canal as an engineering feat, they’ll also confront the ethical concerns behind U.S. intervention in Panama’s independence, the exploitation of labor, and the long-term effects on Panama’s sovereignty.

Through this worksheet, your students will:

Analyze U.S. interests in the construction of the canal and how Theodore Roosevelt’s foreign policy secured U.S. control over the Canal Zone.
Investigate the ethical concerns raised by the exploitation of labor and the role of diseases like malaria and yellow fever during construction.
Explore the impact of the canal on U.S. military and trade dominance, as well as the eventual return of the canal to Panama under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties.

What’s Included:

Multiple-choice questions: Test students' understanding of key events and motivations behind U.S. intervention in Panama.
Matching activities: Reinforce critical terms, figures, and concepts related to the construction and control of the Panama Canal.
Fill-in-the-blank exercises: Provide a quick review of the most important facts and details.
Short-answer questions: Encourage deeper analysis of the ethical dilemmas and broader implications of U.S. control over the canal.
Primary source analysis: Dive into Theodore Roosevelt’s justification of U.S. involvement in Panama, encouraging students to engage with historical perspectives.

This worksheet places a strong emphasis on critical reading and comprehension, making it ideal for in-class discussions, homework, or even as a sub plan for those days when you need reliable, engaging material.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the political and economic motivations behind the U.S.’s construction of the Panama Canal.
Explore the ethical concerns related to labor exploitation and the manipulation of Panama’s independence.
Evaluate the impact of the Panama Canal on U.S. military and economic dominance in the 20th century.
Critically analyze primary sources to understand historical perspectives on U.S. foreign policy.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source and provide an accurate summary.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Courses This Resource Is Perfect For:

U.S. History (High School)
AP U.S. History
World History (Grades 9-12)
Social Studies (Grades 9-12)

This worksheet offers deeper learning opportunities for students to grapple with the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, ethical concerns in international projects, and the role of global trade routes. Whether you're using it for classwork, discussions, or as a sub plan, it’s sure to keep your students engaged and thinking critically.

$1.14

The Boxer Rebellion U.S. Expansionism Primary Source Reading Comprehension

By More Lessons Less Planning

The Boxer Rebellion and U.S. Involvement: A History Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Engage your students with a comprehensive exploration of the Boxer Rebellion and the United States' role in this pivotal event in Chinese history. This reading comprehension worksheet offers an in-depth look at the nationalist uprising, the foreign military intervention that followed, and the lasting consequences for China.

Through this worksheet, your students will:

Explore the rise of the Boxer Rebellion as a nationalist movement in response to foreign exploitation.
Analyze the U.S. and international military intervention that crushed the rebellion and the consequences for China’s sovereignty.
Investigate the Boxer Protocol and its harsh terms on China.
Evaluate the long-term impact of the rebellion and foreign intervention on the collapse of the Qing Dynasty and the rise of Chinese nationalism.

What’s Included:

Multiple-choice questions to test students' comprehension of key events and figures.
Matching exercises to reinforce important terms and concepts.
Fill-in-the-blank activities to review critical facts from the lesson.
Short-answer questions to encourage critical thinking about the implications of U.S. intervention and the Boxer Protocol.
Primary source analysis based on an excerpt from the Boxer Protocol, guiding students through a close reading of historical documents.

This worksheet is designed for deeper learning, encouraging students to consider the ethical and political implications of U.S. and Western intervention in China. It can be used for class discussions, homework, or even sub plans, offering a complete and thought-provoking activity that students can work through independently.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the Boxer Rebellion and the role of foreign intervention in China’s internal struggles.
Analyze the U.S.’s military involvement in the rebellion and its impact on China’s sovereignty.
Examine the long-term effects of the Boxer Protocol on China’s political and economic landscape.
Foster critical thinking through the evaluation of primary sources and historical narratives.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.6: Compare the point of view of two or more authors on how they treat the same or similar topics.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Perfect For:

U.S. History (High School)
World History (Grades 9-12)
AP World History
Global Studies or International Relations (Grades 9-12)

This resource provides a thorough examination of U.S. involvement in the Boxer Rebellion and the broader impact of Western imperialism on China, making it an essential tool for critical thinking and historical analysis. Whether used in a regular class or for substitute lesson plans, this worksheet will keep students engaged and learning.

$1.14

The Rough Riders Spanish American War Primary Source Reading Comprehension

By More Lessons Less Planning

The Rough Riders: Theodore Roosevelt’s Volunteer Cavalry in the Spanish-American War – History Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Engage your students with the fascinating story of The Rough Riders—the volunteer cavalry regiment led by Theodore Roosevelt during the Spanish-American War. This worksheet dives into the Rough Riders' iconic role in the Battle of San Juan Hill, a pivotal moment that secured U.S. victory and catapulted Roosevelt to national fame.

This resource not only highlights the bravery and determination of the Rough Riders but also encourages students to take a critical look at the broader context of U.S. intervention in Cuba, the contributions of Cuban fighters and Buffalo Soldiers, and the long-term effects of U.S. imperialism in the region.

What’s Included:

Multiple-choice questions to test students' comprehension of the Rough Riders' objectives and role in the Spanish-American War.
Matching exercises to reinforce key figures, events, and terms.
Fill-in-the-blank activities to ensure retention of essential details.
Short-answer questions to encourage students to think critically about the glorification of military action and the broader impact of U.S. involvement in Cuba.
Primary source analysis of an excerpt from Theodore Roosevelt’s account of the Battle of San Juan Hill, fostering discussion on how history is remembered and portrayed.

This reading comprehension worksheet is a great tool for deeper learning and is ideal for sparking classroom discussions. Whether used for homework, class assignments, or sub plans, it will captivate your students and enhance their understanding of this key moment in U.S. history.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the role of the Rough Riders in the Spanish-American War and how the Battle of San Juan Hill became a defining moment in U.S. military history.
Analyze the glorification of military action in U.S. history and consider the contributions of other groups involved in the war, such as Cuban rebels and the Buffalo Soldiers.
Evaluate the broader impact of U.S. intervention in Cuba and the long-term consequences of the war.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source and provide an accurate summary.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Courses This Resource Is Perfect For:

U.S. History (High School)
AP U.S. History
Social Studies (Grades 9-12)

This worksheet encourages critical thinking and historical analysis, making it a valuable resource for in-depth learning. It’s also a perfect sub plan that keeps students engaged and thinking.

$1.14

Big Stick Diplomacy U.S. Expansionism Guided Reading Comprehension Worksheet

By More Lessons Less Planning

Big Stick Diplomacy: Theodore Roosevelt’s Bold Foreign Policy - History Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Step into the era of U.S. imperialism and explore one of the most pivotal moments in American foreign policy with this engaging reading comprehension worksheet! Dive deep into Theodore Roosevelt’s Big Stick Diplomacy, where diplomacy met military might to expand U.S. influence in Latin America. This resource helps students understand the balance Roosevelt sought between peaceful negotiations and military intervention, which shaped American dominance in the Western Hemisphere.

This worksheet provides students with an in-depth look at:

The Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine, which justified U.S. intervention in Latin America.
The construction of the Panama Canal, one of the most significant engineering feats in U.S. history, and its impact on U.S.-Latin American relations.
The long-lasting consequences of Big Stick Diplomacy for both the United States and Latin America.

What’s Included:

Multiple-choice questions to test understanding of Roosevelt’s policies and their global implications.
Matching activities to reinforce key figures, terms, and events.
Fill-in-the-blank exercises for quick review of essential concepts.
Short-answer prompts to encourage critical thinking and deeper analysis of the effects of U.S. foreign intervention.
Primary source analysis of Roosevelt’s State of the Union Address, 1904, where he justifies his diplomatic philosophy. With no visuals, this worksheet is designed to focus on reading and comprehension. It’s an excellent resource for deeper learning, making it ideal for classroom discussions, homework assignments, or even sub plans. Your students will explore the complexities of American foreign policy in the early 20th century while developing essential critical thinking skills.

Learning Objectives:

Analyze the motives and consequences of Roosevelt’s Big Stick Diplomacy.
Understand the impact of U.S. military and economic intervention in Latin America.
Evaluate primary sources to explore historical perspectives.
Connect Roosevelt’s policies to broader themes of U.S. imperialism and global influence.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas of a text and provide an accurate summary.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Courses This Resource Is Perfect For:

U.S. History (High School)
World History (Grades 9-12)
AP U.S. History
Social Studies (Grades 9-12)

This worksheet encourages deeper learning, making it a great tool for sub plans, homework assignments, or class discussions. Let your students dive into U.S. foreign policy, connecting Roosevelt’s legacy to current global politics.

$1.14

Annexation of Hawaii U.S. Expansionism Guided Reading Comprehension Worksheet

By More Lessons Less Planning

Annexation of Hawaii: America’s Step Toward Global Dominance - History Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Engage your students with an insightful exploration of one of the most pivotal moments in U.S. imperial history—the annexation of Hawaii in 1898. This comprehensive reading comprehension worksheet dives deep into the complexities of American expansionism, focusing on the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy, the exploitation of native resources, and the lasting cultural impact on Hawaii.

This resource is packed with:

Multiple-choice questions: Reinforce factual understanding of U.S. actions and Hawaiian resistance.
Matching activities: Review key figures and events to enhance retention.
Fill-in-the-blank exercises: Test your students' grasp of essential concepts.
Short answer prompts: Foster critical thinking by encouraging deeper analysis of U.S. imperialism and its consequences for the native Hawaiian population.
Primary source analysis: Examine Queen Liliʻuokalani's poignant letter of protest and challenge your students to critically evaluate her perspective.

Designed to promote critical thinking and historical analysis, this worksheet encourages students to assess the motivations behind the U.S. annexation of Hawaii and its effects on the native population. This makes it a perfect addition to your U.S. history curriculum, with a special focus on imperialism, cultural suppression, and the strategic importance of Hawaii in America’s military expansion.

Learning Objectives:

Analyze the political, economic, and cultural factors leading to the annexation of Hawaii.
Assess the impact of U.S. imperialism on native Hawaiian culture, governance, and resources.
Critically evaluate primary sources to understand different perspectives on the annexation.
Draw connections between historical events and broader themes of U.S. global expansion.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas of a source; provide an accurate summary.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Courses this Resource is Perfect For:

U.S. History (High School)
Social Studies (Grades 9-12)
AP U.S. History
World History (with a focus on imperialism)

This reading comprehension worksheet is more than just an assessment tool; it's a great resource for sub plans, individual work, or even as part of a broader unit on U.S. expansionism. The structured questions and thoughtful primary source analysis make it an excellent way to deepen student learning in a variety of classroom settings.

Ready to unlock your students' critical thisnking potential? Explore my store for a treasure trove of reading comprehensions that tackle diverse themes and inspire insightful discussions. From historical mysteries to scientific explorations, there's something for every classroom!

$1.14

Spanish-American War U.S. Expansionism Reading Comprehension Worksheet

By More Lessons Less Planning

The Spanish-American War: America's Path to Global Power - History Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Immerse your students in one of the most pivotal moments in U.S. history with this comprehensive reading comprehension worksheet on the Spanish-American War. This resource explores the complex motivations behind U.S. involvement in Cuba and the Philippines, the rise of American imperialism, and the lasting consequences of the war. Students will analyze primary sources, evaluate ethical dilemmas, and understand the broader historical context of this pivotal era.

In this worksheet, your students will:

Examine the U.S. invasion of Cuba and the controversial Platt Amendment.
Explore U.S. imperialism in the Philippines and the brutal Philippine-American War.
Analyze primary sources to understand the disillusionment felt by Cuban and Filipino revolutionaries.
Reflect on the broader consequences of U.S. imperialism in Latin America and the Pacific.

What's Included:

Multiple-choice questions to assess understanding of key events and motivations.
Matching activities to reinforce critical terms and figures.
Fill-in-the-blank exercises to review essential information.
Short-answer questions to encourage deeper reflection on the consequences of U.S. intervention.
Primary source analysis of a Cuban revolutionary's letter, helping students grasp the complex emotions surrounding U.S. occupation.

This resource is perfect for in-depth learning, making it ideal for class discussions, homework, or even substitute lesson plans. It encourages students to engage critically with history, understanding both the events and the broader themes of imperialism and foreign intervention.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the Spanish-American War as a turning point in U.S. history.
Analyze the motivations behind U.S. intervention in Cuba and the Philippines.
Explore the ethical dilemmas of American imperialism.
Develop critical thinking through primary source analysis and reflection on media and public opinion.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas of a source and provide an accurate summary.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Courses This Resource Is Perfect For:

U.S. History (High School)
AP U.S. History
World History (Grades 9-12)
Social Studies (Grades 9-12)

This worksheet offers deeper learning for students who want to explore the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and imperialism. It's an ideal substitute lesson plan that promotes thoughtful reflection and discussion.

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 historical mysteries to scientific explorations, there’s something for every classroom! Support a fellow educator and get rewarded! Purchase this resource, leave a review, and earn TeachShare credits you can use on any product on the platform. Your feedback helps others and benefits you too!

$1.14

Sinking of the USS Maine Spanish-American War Reading Comprehension Worksheet

By More Lessons Less Planning

The Sinking of the USS Maine: Catalyst for the Spanish-American War – History Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Immerse your students in one of the most significant events leading to the Spanish-American War—the sinking of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor. This reading comprehension worksheet helps students understand the role of sensationalist media (yellow journalism), public opinion, and the rush to war, all sparked by the mysterious explosion that killed 266 sailors in 1898. Through the study of primary sources and historical events, students will learn how misinformation and media manipulation can influence foreign policy and drive nations to conflict.

In this worksheet, students will:

Analyze the USS Maine incident and its immediate impact on U.S.-Spanish relations.
Examine the role of yellow journalism in shaping public opinion and pushing the U.S. toward war.
Discuss the ethical implications of media sensationalism and misinformation, and how it led to U.S. intervention in Cuba.

What’s Included:

Multiple-choice questions to test comprehension of key facts and events.
Matching exercises to reinforce understanding of important figures and terms.
Fill-in-the-blank activities to solidify key historical details.
Short-answer questions to encourage critical thinking about media influence and the ethical consequences of the U.S.’s actions.
Primary source analysis featuring a dramatic headline from the New York Journal, allowing students to evaluate how sensationalist reporting affected public perception and foreign policy.

This resource provides students with a well-rounded understanding of the USS Maine incident and its significance. It’s perfect for in-depth classroom discussions, homework assignments, or as a sub plan for those days when you need something engaging that encourages critical thinking.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the events leading to the Spanish-American War, particularly the sinking of the USS Maine.
Analyze the role of yellow journalism in influencing public opinion and government action.
Evaluate the ethical consequences of media manipulation in matters of national security and foreign policy.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas of a source and provide an accurate summary.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Courses This Resource Is Perfect For:

U.S. History (High School)
AP U.S. History
World History (Grades 9-12)
Social Studies (Grades 9-12)

This worksheet is ideal for deeper learning as it engages students with critical discussions about media responsibility and how historical events are shaped by sensationalism. It’s also a great resource for substitute lesson plans when you need an activity that promotes critical thinking and comprehension.

$1.14

The Philippine War U.S Expansionism Primary Source Reading Comprehension

By More Lessons Less Planning

The Philippine War: U.S. Foreign Expansion and Its Impact - History Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Explore the complexities of U.S. imperialism with this engaging reading comprehension worksheet on The Philippine-American War. This resource guides students through the U.S.’s controversial acquisition of the Philippines following the Spanish-American War and the intense conflict that followed between Filipino nationalists and U.S. forces. Through the lens of this war, students will grapple with the broader themes of imperialism, military intervention, and the ethical dilemmas posed by U.S. foreign expansion in the early 20th century.

In this worksheet, your students will:

Analyze the motivations behind U.S. control of the Philippines, including economic, military, and ideological factors.
Investigate the brutal tactics used during the war and the ethical implications of U.S. military intervention.
Engage with primary source analysis to understand how the war shaped relations between the U.S. and the Philippines.

What’s Included:

Multiple-choice questions to assess comprehension of key events and motives behind U.S. actions.
Matching activities to reinforce key historical figures and events.
Fill-in-the-blank exercises to review essential facts.
Short-answer questions to promote deeper critical thinking about the war’s lasting impact and ethical considerations.
Primary source analysis of a U.S. soldier’s testimony, challenging students to reflect on the attitudes and brutality of the conflict.

This worksheet focuses on in-depth reading and comprehension, making it perfect for in-class assignments, homework, or even as a substitute lesson plan.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the political, economic, and ideological motivations behind U.S. involvement in the Philippine-American War.
Analyze the brutality and ethical dilemmas associated with U.S. imperialism.
Evaluate the long-term consequences of U.S. expansionism on both the Philippines and American foreign policy.
Develop students’ critical thinking skills by engaging with primary source documents.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas of a source and provide an accurate summary.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Courses This Resource Is Perfect For:

U.S. History (High School)
AP U.S. History
World History (Grades 9-12)
Social Studies (Grades 9-12)

This worksheet offers deeper learning opportunities for students to critically engage with a key moment in U.S. history. Whether used for classwork, discussions, or as a sub plan, it challenges students to think deeply about U.S. imperialism and its lasting effects on both the Philippines and global politics.

$1.14

Yellow Journalism Spanish American War: How the Media Shaped History Worksheet

By More Lessons Less Planning

Yellow Journalism and the Spanish-American War: How the Media Shaped History - History Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Uncover the powerful role of the media with this reading comprehension worksheet on yellow journalism and its influence on the Spanish-American War. Perfect for high school history students, this resource offers a thorough exploration of how sensationalized reporting by figures like William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer ignited public outrage, influenced U.S. foreign policy, and pushed the nation toward war.

What's Included:

An engaging passage detailing the rise of yellow journalism, its role in fueling the Spanish-American War, and the lasting impact of media on U.S. imperialism.
Multiple-choice questions to test comprehension of key events, figures, and concepts.
Matching and fill-in-the-blank activities to help reinforce learning and review important terms.
Primary source analysis, featuring an excerpt from an 1898 newspaper, with guided questions that challenge students to critically assess sensationalist reporting.
Short-answer questions to encourage deeper thinking about the consequences of yellow journalism and the ethics of responsible reporting.

Key Learning Objectives:

Understand the rise of yellow journalism and how it shaped public opinion during the late 19th century.
Explore the impact of sensationalism on the U.S.’s decision to enter the Spanish-American War.
Analyze the ethical implications of exaggerated reporting and its effect on public perception.
Investigate the role of media influence in shaping political and historical events.

A Great Tool For:

Deeper learning and class discussions about the power of the press and its role in society.
Sub plans that are ready-to-use, keeping students engaged with meaningful content in your absence.
Independent or group work, offering a comprehensive look at how journalism played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. history.

Common Core Standards Covered:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of how key events develop over the course of the text.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.7: Integrate and evaluate multiple sources of information presented in diverse formats and media.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Perfect For:

U.S. History or World History classes
AP U.S. History
Journalism or Media Studies courses that examine the ethics of reporting
Critical thinking and analysis exercises

This worksheet is a must-have for any history teacher looking to bring discussions of media, ethics, and historical events into the classroom. It’s not just about learning facts—it’s about critical thinking and examining how journalism shapes world events. 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 historical mysteries to scientific explorations, there’s something for every classroom!

$1.14

Home

Mission

Blog

Professional Development

Launchpad

Plans

Community

Help

U.S. Imperialism Reading Comprehension Bundle 10 Worksheets on Historical Events