The Mayflower Compact
by The Pilgrims
The Mayflower Compact was a document written and signed by the Pilgrims as they arrived in the New World in 1620. The document is named for the Pilgrims’ ship, the "Mayflower." Students will read the passage and answer questions on the meaning of the document.
Reading Comprehension Passage
The Mayflower Compact
by The Pilgrims
Reading Comprehension Questions
Vocabulary List
Vocabulary List
Each of the vocabulary words below are used in the reading passage. As you read the passage, pay attention to context clues that suggest the word’s meaning.
- loyal
- solemnly
- preservation
- just
- submission
- subscribed
- reign
Context Clues
Context Clues
Using context clues from the sentences in the passage, underline the correct meaning of the word in boldface.
1) “…The loyal subjects of our dread Sovereign Lord King James, by the Grace of God of Great Britain…”
a. devoted b. creative c. helpful d. disrespectful
2) “…do by these presents solemnly and mutually in the presence of God and one of another…”
a. cooperatively b. religiously c. carefully d. seriously
3) “…for our better ordering and preservation and furtherance of the ends aforesaid…”
a. organization b. clarity c. protection d. understanding
4) “and by virtue hereof to enact, constitute and frame such just and equal Laws…”
a. fair b. simple c. unfair d. strong
5) “…unto which we promise all due submission and obedience.”
a. interpretation b. compliance c. non-compliance d. freedom
6) “In witness whereof we have hereunder subscribed our names at Cape Cod, the 11th of November…”
a. changed b. erased c. eliminated d. signed
7) “In the year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord King James, of England, France…”
a. dominance b. inclement weather c. downfall d. submissiveness