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Revolutionary Period: A Nation Is Born
Name __________________
Date __________________
Jefferson’s Masterpiece
As you read the Declaration of Independence, answer the following questions carefully:
1.
Copy words from the first paragraph which best tell WHY the colonists are publishing to the world the
reasons for their separation from Britain.
2.
Are countries today still concerned about what other countries will think and say about their actions?
3.
List some words and phrases from paragraph two that make the British king and Parliament appear guilty
of great injustice.
4.
List some words and phrases from paragraph two that make the American colonists appear justified in
their revolution against and separation from Britain.
5.
Jefferson lists in detail the colonists’ grievances (paragraphs 3-29). List the three you consider the worst
and explain each one of your choices.
#1
#2
#3
6.
After listing the colonists’ grievances, Jefferson emphasizes that they have tried using peaceful means to
gain just treatment from the king. What is the purpose of these statements?
7.
The last paragraph states the rights that the colonies now have as independent states. The tone becomes
more forceful and assertive, richer in emotion. What words does Jefferson use in the first sentence of this
paragraph to gain the confidence and good will of the people?
8.
What words contribute to the strong emotional effect of the last line?
9.
One of the most famous passages from the Declaration of Independence is the first part of paragraph two:
“We hold these truths to be self-evident . . . deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.”
Paraphrase this passage and write it in your own words.
10.
Does Jefferson succeed in his purpose to persuade you that the American Revolution was justified and
that separation from Britain was necessary?
Bonus: Memorize the first part of paragraph two, beginning, “We hold these truths to be self-evident,” and
ending, “deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” In your delivery, use a persuasive
tone.
Element: ELAAMLITRL1
Demonstrates Comprehension/Non-Fiction/Informational Text
The student demonstrates comprehension by identifying evidence (e.g., diction, imagery, point of view, figurative language,
symbolism, plot events), main ideas, and cultural characteristics in a variety of texts representative of different genres (e.g.,
poetry, prose, [short story, novel, essay, editorial, biography], and drama) and using this evidence as the basis for
interpretation.
Element: ELAAMLITRL1.a
Analyzes and explains the structures and elements of nonfiction works such as philosophical essays and letters.
Element: ELAAMLITRL1.b
Analyzes and evaluates the logic and use of evidence in an author's argument.
Element: ELAAMLITRL1.c
Analyzes, evaluates, and applies knowledge of the ways authors from different cultures use language, style, syntax, and
rhetorical strategies for specific purposes in nonfiction works.