Materials

• Class textbook
• Copies of the students’ interpretations of the Declaration
• Overhead projector
• Blank overhead transparency

Instructional Activities

1. Finish the presentations on the Declaration of Independence, if necessary. Prepare on an overhead a final Declaration in the students’ words, to be used during the study of the Constitution. Explain that the class will revisit their interpretation of the Declaration when they study the Constitution.
   
   
2. Remind students that the main purpose of the Declaration of Independence was to win support for the independence movement.
   
   
3. Display the following prompts on the board or overhead:
   
   The American Revolution lasted from April 1775 until October 1781 with the British defeat at the Battle of Yorktown. This defeat was made possible, in part, by the presence of the French army and navy. George Washington served as the commanding general of the American Army.
   
   NOTE: Using the class textbook and other resources, briefly review key events of the American Revolution. Stress the role of the French in providing covert aid, diplomatic support and overt military assistance.
   
   
4. Assign a teacher-selected reading, worksheet, or other reinforcement activity, using available resources.