Exploros | The Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence

Students identify how English policies and responses to colonial concerns led to the writing of the Declaration of Independence. They examine John Locke’s idea of natural rights and analyze the ideas and complaints set forth in the Declaration of Independence through a close reading of each section of the document.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

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Overview

In this experience, students identify how English policies and responses to colonial concerns led to the writing of the Declaration of Independence. They examine John Locke’s idea of natural rights and analyze the ideas and complaints set forth in the Declaration of Independence through a close reading of each section of the document.

Objectives

Explain how Britain’s policies and responses to colonial concerns led to the writing of The Declaration of Independence.
Summarize the main ideas of the Declaration of Independence.

The Declaration of Independence is considered a revolutionary document with a revolutionary statement. In this lesson, you will do a close reading of the Declaration of Independence in order to analyze the meaning behind each section of the document.

Objectives

Explain how Britain’s policies and responses to colonial concerns led to the writing of The Declaration of Independence.
Summarize the main ideas of the Declaration of Independence.

Facsimile of the Declaration of Independence

Watch this video about the writing and importance of the Declaration of Independence.

As you watch the video, listen for key words and phrases that people use to describe this document. Write one or more of these words or phrases below.

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Sample answers might include: