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All grades  Project 5 weeks

Revolution Rebels: Unsung Heroes Unveiled!

Tess H
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.11-12.9
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.11-12.9
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.9-10.9
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to immerse students in the multifaceted history of the American Revolution, highlighting the diverse perspectives and contributions of lesser-known figures. Through role-playing simulations, deep dives into historical spy rings, and critical analysis of foundational documents, students will engage in self-directed learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving. This project aims to foster a deeper understanding of the revolution's causes, impacts, and lasting effects while encouraging students to reflect on their own identities and roles within their communities. Additionally, students will develop their academic writing skills by crafting an argumentative paragraph, which will serve as an initial assessment of their writing abilities.

Learning goals

Students will analyze the causes of the American Revolution, focusing on the diverse perspectives and contributions of lesser-known figures. They will engage in critical thinking to explore the social, economic, and political factors that led to the colonies' quest for independence, examining the roles and impacts on various groups. Through role-playing and self-directed learning, students will develop an academic mindset and understand the lasting effects of the Revolution on modern society. Students will demonstrate their understanding through an argumentative paragraph, showcasing their ability to articulate historical analysis and perspectives.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.11-12.9 - Analyze seventeenth-, eighteenth-, and nineteenth-century foundational U.S. documents of historical and literary significance (including The Declaration of Independence, the Preamble to the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address) for their themes, purposes, and rhetorical features.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.11-12.9 - Demonstrate knowledge of eighteenth-, nineteenth- and early-twentieth-century foundational works of American literature, including how two or more texts from the same period treat similar themes or topics.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.9-10.9 - Analyze seminal U.S. documents of historical and literary significance (e.g., Washington's Farewell Address, the Gettysburg Address, Roosevelt's Four Freedoms speech, King's "Letter from Birmingham Jail"), including how they address related themes and concepts.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will write an argumentative paragraph that highlights the contributions of lesser-known figures in the American Revolution, using primary source analysis to support their claims. They will also develop a historically accurate role-playing simulation script to negotiate a peace treaty, integrating diverse perspectives and addressing the social, economic, and political factors of the era. As a culminating product, students will produce a reflective essay or video diary that explores the lasting impact of the Revolution on modern society and their personal connection to the stories of unsung heroes.

Launch

Begin the project with an immersive exploration of the Culper Ring by transforming the classroom into a "spy headquarters." Students will receive coded messages and engage in a series of interactive activities that simulate espionage tactics used during the Revolutionary War. They will work in teams to decode messages, gather intelligence on historical events, and discuss the significance of the Culper Ring's contributions to the American Revolution. This hands-on experience will set the stage for understanding the diverse perspectives and lesser-known figures who played critical roles in the fight for independence.

Exhibition

Students will host a "Revolutionary Heroes Fair," where they present interactive exhibits showcasing the lesser-known figures of the American Revolution. Each exhibit will feature an argumentative paragraph written by the students, supported by creative elements such as digital storytelling or multimedia presentations that highlight the contributions and perspectives of these figures. Students will also facilitate discussions with visitors, encouraging them to explore the lasting impacts of the Revolution on modern society and the importance of diverse narratives in historical understanding. This event will invite peers, family, and community members to engage with the students' work, fostering a shared appreciation for the complexities of history.