Materials

• Outline map of the United States and colored markers for each student
• Atlases of the United States
• Computer with Internet access

Instructional Activities

1. Briefly review the previous session’s activities, as needed.
   
   
2. Display the following prompt on the board or overhead:
   
   The Treaty of Paris, signed on September 3, 1783, was negotiated by Benjamin Franklin. The terms of the treaty were:
   • United States independence was recognized.
   • Land from the Atlantic coast westward to the Mississippi River and from the Great Lakes south to Florida was granted to the United States.
   • The United States received fishing rights in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and off the coast of Newfoundland.
   • Americans should pay any debts owed to the British.
   • British should evacuate posts in United States territory (not completed until 1796).
   
   
3. Discuss the terms of this treaty. Encourage students to examine the long-term impact of this treaty. Ask,
   • Why did the British give up?
   • What would it have been like in the colonies if the British had won the war.
   • Based on the outcome of the American Revolution, why does the United States have such a positive relationship with Great Britain today?
   • Did the United States experience encourage future revolutions? Is so, what are a few examples (French Revolution, Spanish-American War)
   The following Web sites may be of assistance:
   • <http://www.yale.edu/lawweb/avalon/paris763.htm> (the Treaty of Paris of 1783)
   • <http://www.archives.gov/digital_classroom/lessons/american_revolution_images
   
   
4. Distribute outline maps of the United States. Instruct students to color code the maps to reflect the territory that belonged to the United States as a result of this treaty. Have atlases available to guide students.
   
   
5. Remind students of the due date for their project. Allow time in class to work on the project, if possible.