Download Name : Date : Per : Introduction In class, we looked at a couple

Name :
Date :
Per :
Introduction
In class, we looked at a couple examples of propaganda. One was the song “Ohio,” about the
shootings at Kent State in 1970. Another was Paul Revere's illustration of the Boston Massacre.
On a daily basis, we are confronted with forms of propaganda, in which the government, the media,
and advertising executives try to influence the way that we think. By understanding what propaganda
is and how it's created, we can better understand when we're being manipulated by someone else.
Instructions
Your task for this project is to create a piece of propaganda that would have influenced the way
people thought about the relationship between the American colonies and England.
First, choose an event in the years leading to the American Revolution (1763-1776). We completed a
timeline in class, and you could choose one of those events. You could also research a lesser known
event, but your project must be based on a documented historical event.
Then, choose a format for your propaganda. I would suggest creating a poster (like the Paul Revere
picture), a song/poem/rap (like “Ohio”), or a persuasive essay (like the pamphlet “Common Sense,”
by Thomas Paine). If you'd like to do something besides these three options, see me after class to get
it approved.
Finally, write a short explanation to accompany your piece of propaganda. In this explanation, you
should briefly explain the historical event as it happened and then explain how your project
embelishes, twists, or distorts the truth to influence the way that people think. In other words, tell
me how it is propaganda.
Other Important Information
You may work with a partner or by yourself.
The completed project is due Wednesday, November 26. If your class does not meet on that half day,
you should drop it in my room during the day. If you will not be in school that day, you should hand
in your project on Tuesday, November 25. Projects received after the Thanksgiving break will be late
and will lose a full letter grade.
Your project could be from either the British or American perspective. For example, your project
could convince British citizens that the American colonists are a bunch of unruly, violent, thugs. Or,
your project could convince American colonists that the British government is evil, over-bearing, and
constantly violating your rights.