Lesson #4: REVOLUTION!

Activity 4.3: Declaration of Independence

An enhanced copy of the Declaration of Independence

The colonists had a difficult decision to make. They needed to decide if they were going to continue to protest as a part of the British Empire, or to break away completely and declare themselves independent. In this activity, you learn about the Declaration of Independence and it’s original meaning and what it means to Americans today.

Benchmark:

5.4.4.17.3: Identify the major events of the American Revolution culminating in the creation of a new and independent nation.

Learning Target:

I can...explain how certain historical events change the course of history.

Essential Question:

What were the major events of the American Revolution?

To complete Activity 4.3 please follow the steps below:

STEP 1:

To get a general understanding of what this historical document is, watch this short video about The Declaration of Independence. You will notice many Americans find this document to be very important and feel strongly about it.

STEP 2:

The Second Continental Congress met with the intention of making a final decision about whether they would declare independence from British rule, and how they would communicate their decisions. Learn about the details by watching a short video about Thomas Jefferson and The Continental Congress.

Now read about Jefferson and the Declaration of Independence to discover more details. (For a more detailed description, click on Reading Level: “Middle” at the top of the page.)

STEP 4:

Upload your responses to the add submission box

To check your understanding answer these questions.

1. Why did the Continental Congress create the Declaration of Independence?

2. What important details were included in the Declaration of Independence?

3. On what day was the Declaration of Independence finished? Why is this important today?