American Revolution
Session 2: The Declaration of Independence

Materials

• Copy of the Declaration of Independence (usually found in student textbook)
• “Declaration of Independence Document Analysis Sheet” (Attachment B)

Instructional Activities

1. Explain to students the general background of the Declaration of Independence:
   - The American colonies were already at war with Britain but felt they needed to formally declare independence.
   - Thomas Jefferson wrote the document, and it was approved by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.
   
   
2. Divide students into pairs or trios. Give each group a “Declaration of Independence Document Analysis Sheet” (Attachment B) and access to a copy of the Declaration. Have each group examine and analyze a different assigned passage of the document and complete the analysis sheet for that passage.
   
   
3. Ask each group (in sequential order) to share their analysis of their passage. Help clarify the main ideas, listing them on the board for class discussion. As the class discusses the Declaration, have students refer to the entire document and consider the following questions:
   - What was the purpose of writing a formal declaration of independence?
   - Is the Declaration of Independence relevant today?
   - What are the key philosophies listed in the Declaration of Independence, particularly those of John Locke?