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Listen and Follow Along: A Voice in the Community

Grade 5 · Cluster 6 · Low Stamina. Press play, and the gold box moves word by word as the passage is read aloud, so students hear and see it at the same time.
Read in Randi Whitney's voice.

A Voice in the Community

In many communities across the United States, people have chances to take part in civic life. This can include voting, attending meetings, volunteering, or sharing opinions about rules and laws. These actions can happen at the local, state, or national level, and they can affect how a community changes over time.

Some people believe it is important to take part in civic affairs. They think decisions made by leaders can impact schools, roads, safety, and other parts of daily life. By voting or speaking up, people can have a say in those decisions. For example, a local election might decide how money is used in schools, while a national election can shape laws for the whole country.

Others feel that taking part is not always necessary. They may think one person's vote will not make much of a difference, especially in large elections. Some people are busy with work or family and choose not to get involved. Others may feel unsure because they do not have enough information about the issues.

Even so, communities are shaped by the people who live in them. Some voices are heard more often, but every action can still have an effect over time.