The Declaration of Independence: Classroom Resources

In 5th grade, we study the Declaration of Independence in simple terms. It's important to know what this document is, why it's important, and its impact on the American Revolution.

Links to assist in researching the Declaration of Independence:

• Kidipede: This site details what the Declaration was all about, and even some of the rights that were denied the colonists by King George. 
• Declaration of Independence Facts at Duckster.com: Good facts with links to documents and other information.
• "The Declaration of Indepdence": By John Trumbull: This huge interactive version of the famous John Trumbull painting depicting the signing of the Declaration. You can learn more about the men who were present. 
• Pictures of the Declaration of Independence: Also includes pictures of related events, like the first reading. This is at Revolutionary War and Beyond.com

Teacher Resources:

• Hey, King: Get Off Our Backs: A very well made lesson presented in a pdf document. Includes readings and questions that can be used in Reading or Social Studies class. 
• Interpretation of the Declaration of Independence: An activity (pdf document) that asks students to translate the paragraphs of the Declaration into today friendly terms. This activity is for 7th graders, but can be easily adapted to younger grades. 
• Sign Your John Hancock: A Lesson About Signatures: This lesson is all about learning how to sign your name, and having different signatures for different situations. It has the added bonus of teaching about both the Declaration of Independence and John Hancock. It's presented as a pdf document.
• Colonial Williamsburg Activities and Games: An online collection of different computer activities that have to do with the revolution and colonial period.
• The Paragraphs of the Declaration: This pdf document divides the Declaration into pieces. This can be used to have students read aloud certain passages or present them orally.

Video Clips:

This first clip is always a student favorite. I love this video, and end up singing this song in my head for weeks every time I hear it. It's Too Late To Apologize: A Declaration!

This second video clip is from America: The Story of Us. It's as good as it gets in describing the Declaration in kid friendly terms: