This week, a political dispute in Washington led to a partial shutdown of the United States government for the first time in almost __ years. Agencies sent home more than _______ workers -- about _______ of the federal work force.

The new budget year began Tuesday, _______ (month) __. But Republicans in Congress blocked even short-term spending for many government operations.

This week, a political dispute in Washington led to a partial shutdown of the United States government for the first time in almost 20 years. Agencies sent home more than 800,000 workers -- about one third of the federal work force. (one third = 1/3)

The new budget year began Tuesday, October 1. But Republicans in Congress blocked even short-term spending for many government operations.