Immigration and Ellis Island: Reading Comprehension

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
8 questions
~16 mins
1 views0 downloads

About This Worksheet

This worksheet explores the role of Ellis Island in American immigration history through reading comprehension activities. Students will analyze sources and develop their understanding of the immigrant experience.

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Immigration and Ellis Island: Reading Comprehension

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Untitled Worksheet

Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Understanding Ellis Island

Source A: Excerpt from a government pamphlet about Ellis Island

'Ellis Island served as the primary immigration station from 1892 to 1954. It was the first point of entry for millions of immigrants arriving by sea, where they underwent medical examinations and legal inspections before entering the United States.' Provenance: Official government publication, 1920.

1.
Explain the main purpose of Ellis Island based on Source A. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Compare the role of Ellis Island with other immigration points in the US during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
B

Immigrant Experiences

Source B: Testimony of an immigrant arriving at Ellis Island

'The journey was long and tiring, and I was nervous about what awaited me at Ellis Island. When I arrived, I was examined by doctors and asked many questions about my background. I was worried I might be turned away.' Provenance: Oral history interview, 1930.

1.
Outline the experiences of immigrants arriving at Ellis Island as described in Source B. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Analyse how the experiences of immigrants at Ellis Island might have affected their view of America. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
C

Historical Significance

Source C: Historian's view on Ellis Island

'Ellis Island played a crucial role in shaping the United States as a nation of immigrants. It symbolized both opportunity and the restrictions placed on newcomers.' Provenance: Historical analysis, 2000.

1.
Explain the importance of Ellis Island in shaping American society, based on Source C. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Compare the symbolic meaning of Ellis Island with its practical function. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
D

Reflections on Immigration

Source D: Modern commentary on Ellis Island

'Today, Ellis Island remains a powerful symbol of America's immigrant history. It reminds us of the diverse peoples who built the nation.' Provenance: Museum exhibit description, 2010.

1.
Write a brief explanation of the significance of Ellis Island today. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Analyse the importance of Ellis Island in shaping America's identity as a nation of immigrants. (6 marks)
[6 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet