Introduction
- USH.7.1-Analyze the causes, key events, and consequences of the American Revolution, including the impact of British policies, colonial responses, and the movement toward independence.
- USH.7.2- Evaluate the significance of important documents, individuals, and events that influenced the American Revolution and the creation of the United States.
Objectives:
- TSW identify and explain the major causes of the American Revolution with 75% accuracy.
- TSW compare and contrast Patriot and Loyalist viewpoints using historical evidence.
- TSW analyze primary and secondary sources related to the American Revolution.
- TSW construct a persuasive argument supported by evidence explaining whether they would have supported the Patriots or Loyalists.
The year is 1775 and tensions between Great Britain and the American colonies has intensified. Colonists need to decide whether to support independence from Britain or remain loyal to the king. Your job is to investigate both sides of the conflict and determine which side you would have supported during the American Revolution.
Task
You are a historical investigator. Your job is to answer this question:
"Would you have been a Patriot or a Loyalist during the American Revolution?"
By the end, you will:
- Explain the causes of the American Revolution.
- Compare Patriot and Loyalist viewpoints.
- Analyze historical evidence.
- Support your opinion using facts from your research.
- Create a persuasive letter defending your choice.
Process
Step One: Learn about the American Revolution
Read the resources provided and take notes on:
- The French and Indian War
- Taxes imposed by Britain
- The Boston Massacre
- The Boston Tea Party
- The First Continental Congress
- The Declaration of Independence
Step Two: Investigate Both Sides
Create a chart comparing Patriots and Loyalists.
Add five or more facts for each side.
Side Three: Analyze Historical Evidence
Answer the following questions:
- Why were many colonies upset with Great Britain?
- Why did some colonists remain loyal to Britain?
- What risks did Patriots face?
- What risks did Loyalists face?
- Which side had the stronger argument?
Step Four: Make Your Decision
Decide whether you would have supported the Patriots or Loyalists>
Step Five: Final Product
Write a one-page persuasive letter explaining:
- Which side you chose.
- Three reasons for your choice.
- Evidence from your research.
- Why someone might disagree with you.
Resources:
History.com-American Revolution: https://www.history.com/articles/american-revolution-history
National Geographic: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/related/e7128402-2404-3872-bf2a-aa9dc5f254e9/american-revolution
Loyalists vs Patriots in the American Revolutionary War: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mz99B05s_PU
Crash Course World History #28: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlUiSBXQHCw
Evaluation
| Criteria | Excellent (4) | Good (3) | Fair (2) | Improvement (1) |
| Research | Thorough notes from all resources | Most resources use | Some resources used | Limited research |
| Comparison Chart | Complete with accurate facts | Mostly complete | Partially complete | Incomplete |
| Historical Analysis | Strong understanding of both sides | Adequate understanding | Limited understanding | Weak understanding |
| Persuasive Letter | Well-supported argument with evidence | Clear argument with some evidence | Limited evidence | Little or no evidence |
| Grammar | Well organized and error-free | Minor errors | Several errors | Difficult to follow |
Conclusion
The American Revolution divided the colonists into two groups: Patriots and Loyalists. By examining both of the groups' perspectives, you learned that historical events are often more complicated than they first appear. Understanding the choices people faced during the American Revolution helps us better understand the founding of the United States and the importance of civic participation today.
Credits
MCCRS
YouTube
History Channel website
National Geographic Website
Teacher Page
Grade Level: 7th Grade
Topic: American Revolution