Journey Paths

This passage highlights the different experiences immigrants faced when traveling through Ellis Island. First- and second-class passengers avoided inspection, while third-class travelers endured long, crowded waits. Many immigrants faced language barriers, making translation services necessary but often challenging. Treatment also varied depending on where immigrants came from, with Europeans often having an easier time entering than Asians or others. Despite hardships, Ellis Island gave many the opportunity to begin new lives in America.

This passage develops vocabulary through words like “steerage,” “interpreters,” and “barriers.” It improves reading comprehension by requiring students to understand how experiences differed based on class and origin. It strengthens critical thinking by pushing readers to consider fairness and equality in history. Grammar skills grow as students analyze complex passages with transition words such as “however” and “despite.” Cultural literacy expands by connecting past struggles to modern ideas of immigration.