Reading Passage: The History and Signing of the United States Constitution

The United States Constitution is one of the most important documents in American history. It was written and signed in 1787, over 200 years ago! The Constitution established America's national government and laws, and guaranteed citizens' basic rights.

The Constitution was written during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. This convention was organized after the American Revolutionary War, when the new nation realized they needed a stronger central government. Before the Constitution, the country was loosely organized under the Articles of Confederation. However, this document gave states too much power. The founders knew they needed a new plan to unify the states under a federal government.

Some of the most famous founders and thinkers of the time attended the convention. James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington were just a few of the impressive minds that contributed ideas. The delegates debated about how to best organize the government and protect citizens' rights. It was difficult for them to agree, but they managed to compromise.

After four months of discussion, debates, and edits, the final Constitution was signed on September 17, 1787. Then, it had to be ratified or approved by 9 of the 13 states. This process also involved compromise and debate. Finally, in 1788, the Constitution was ratified. This marked the birth of the United States under the new Constitution.

The Constitution established the three branches of government - executive, legislative, and judicial. It also included important rights for citizens, like freedom of speech and religion. This important document set up a strong democracy that has lasted for over 200 years! The principles and ideals within the Constitution still shape our country today.

Comprehension Questions:

1. In what city and year was the Constitution written and signed?

2. Why did the founders think the country needed a new constitution after the Revolutionary War? 

3. Name three famous founders who attended the Constitutional Convention. 

4. How long did it take to write and agree on the final Constitution? 

5. How many states had to ratify or approve the Constitution before it could be adopted?

6. What are the three branches of government established in the Constitution?

7. What are two important rights guaranteed to citizens in the Constitution? 

8. How long ago was the Constitution signed and adopted? Do you think it is still important today? Why or why not?

9. What was one compromise or debate the founders had while writing the Constitution? 

10. Summarize the overall purpose and importance of the United States Constitution.

Reading Passage: US Constitution for high school students:

The Framers of the Constitution

The United States Constitution is one of the most influential legal documents ever written. Drafted at the Constitutional Convention in 1787, the Constitution established America's national government and fundamental laws. It also guaranteed certain basic rights for its citizens. The brilliant minds that came together to write the Constitution ensured its ability to withstand the test of time. Their impassioned debates and compromises created a living document that has shaped our nation for over 200 years. 

The Constitutional Convention was held in Philadelphia and included 55 delegates from all of the states except Rhode Island. Some of America’s greatest thinkers were in attendance, including James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington. These men are considered the “Framers” of the Constitution. Each framer brought extensive knowledge of political theory, philosophy, and law. They leveraged their exceptional talents to produce the near-perfect document we honor today.

However, the process was filled with disagreements and required compromise. Developing a single document that unified the states yet protected individuals’ rights was no easy task. The framers had heated debates over legislative representation, executive power, rights of citizenship, and more. But they persisted, wrote multiple drafts, and finally signed the finished Constitution on September 17, 1787. 

Nine states needed to ratify or approve the Constitution before it could take effect. This led to more public debate between the Federalists who supported ratification and Anti-Federalists who opposed it. But by June 21, 1788, the Constitution was officially ratified. Its principles now guide our laws and institutions. The foresight of the Constitution’s Framers gave us a foundation to build a just, free, and thriving society.