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Lesson

The Declaration of Independence

Guiding question

What were the philosophical bases and practical purposes of the Declaration of Independence?

Grade
8–12
Published
Apr 6, 2022
Delegates at the Second Continental Congress discussing the Declaration of Independence in a historic meeting room.

Objective:

  • Students will examine the philosophical bases and practical purposes of the Declaration of Independence by analyzing key passages from the document.

Materials

Student Materials

Teacher Resources

Lesson Components

ActivityEssay Graphic Organizer and Questions
ActivityStudent Organizer: Declaration Preamble and Grievances
ActivityJefferson’s Reflections: Declaration of Independence
EssayBackground Essay: The Declaration of Independence
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Lesson plan

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More Information

For students who need additional scaffolding in vocabulary and reading comprehension, this lesson plan suggests having students interview three people as preparatory work and read the essay and accompanying organizer in class. Stronger readers can complete the essay and accompanying organizer for homework and begin class by posing the question “What does the Fourth of July mean to you?” to classmates and then having a class discussion. Two versions of the graphic organizer are provided for the second part of the activity. Version A contains shorter excerpts. Version B can be used with stronger readers. Students will consult Appendix A: Founding Principles and Civic Virtues Organizer and Appendix B: Being an American Unit Graphic Organizer from the first lesson in this curriculum.

Standards

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Primary SourceDeclaration of Independence

On June 7, 1776, Richard Henry Lee brought what came to be called the Lee Resolution before the Continental Congress. This resolution stated “these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states ...” Congress debated independence for several days.

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What was the Continental Congress's argument for Independence? Join Kirk Higgins, as he takes a line by line look at the the Declaration of Independence.