About This Lesson
The Declaration of Independence is one of the founding and most fundamental documents of the United States. On July 4, 1776, during the American Revolution, the Second Continental Congress adopted the famed document drafted by Thomas Jefferson that pronounced the independence of the thirteen states, previously the Thirteen Colonies. The Declaration was adopted at a point in time when Congress had determined that their grievances against Great Britain were irreconcilable and the majority in Congress agreed that independence was the best solution. The Declaration of Independence was a reaction to years of injustices waged by Great Britain that served to unify the Thirteen Colonies together under mutual frustrations. With Congress’ adoption of the Declaration, unity was felt throughout the colonies, and the Thirteen Colonies took an important step toward becoming the United States of America.
Upon completion of this lesson, the students will be able to:
1. Knowledge
- Describe some of the processes leading to the votes for independence and the writing of the Declaration of Independence.
- Discuss the importance of the Declaration of Independence in the founding of the United States of America.
2. Comprehension/Application/Analysis
- Examine and closely read/analyze the Declaration of Independence.
3. Evaluation
- Evaluate the meaning conveyed by the Declaration of Independence through its structure and phrasing.
This Lesson Plan can be used as a prepared resource by following this curriculum plan which aligns to NCSS and Common Core Standards.
This Lesson Plan's assets can also be used on their own as supplemental resources. The display format is prepared for easy access, exploring, and learning.
