Declaration of Independence Lesson Plans

Students reflect on the Declaration of Independence.  In this U.S. History lesson, students read the Declaration of Independence then complete an activity and worksheet on the topic.

Students read articles presenting the point of view of the writer to the Declaration of Independence.  In this Declaration of Independence lesson, students read articles and answer questions to understand the different positions towards the Declaration of Independence. Students write and essay discussing the various positions.

Fifth graders participate in a discussion about the Declaration of Independence.  In this Declaration of Independence lesson, 5th graders write imaginary stories in the voice of a member of the committee at Independence hall. Students answer questions as the committee member.

Students empathize with the colonists. In this lesson plan on the Declaration of Independence, students collaborate to problem solve a school dilemma that enables them to understand the issues and difficulties that occurred in the creation of the Declaration of Independence. 

Students explore the Declaration of Independence.  In this U.S. History Declaration of Independence lesson, students compare and contrast viewpoints of the Loyalists and the Patriots as they discuss the issue of colonial independence from Britain. Students present support for both groups using a debate format, and come to a consensus about the signing of the Declaration of Independence being a positive step in U.S. history.

Students examine the Declaration of Independence. In this colonial America lesson, students read literature regarding the document as well as excerpts of the document itself. Students also perform a Reader's Theatre script based on the signing of the document.

Students identify and interpret the Declaration of Independence and the rights and privileges demanded in the document. They also identify how those rights and privileges have affected our history. Students then research about the reluctant author of it, Thomas Jefferson, and prepare an oral report paraphrasing an excerpt of the Declaration of Independence.

Students discover how the Declaration of Independence transformed from a draft to a treasured historical document. In this Declaration of Independence lesson plan, students discuss the context in which Jefferson wrote the document and analyze its meaning.

Students analyze the Declaration of Independence. In this primary source analysis lesson, students identify and describe the sections of document. Students then discuss complaints the colonists had about the document. As a culminating activity, students write their own declarations of independence as if they we were under the rule of harsh authorities.

Students complete pre reading, writing, during reading, and interdisciplinary activities for the book The Declaration of Independence. In this reading lesson plan, students complete journal entries, go over vocabulary, answer short answer questions, have discussions, and more.