Revised: Oct. 18, 2014.
The inspiration for this module comes from a module written in the fall of 2011 by 5th grade teachers at Wakulla County Schools, FL, titled: Patriot or Loyalist: Whose Point of View?
During the time in the 1770's leading up to the Revolutionary War, citizens in the American Colonies were divided between maintaining a fidelity to King George III of England (Royalist view) versus establishing a nation independent of English rule (Patriot view). Both groups had strong, and often strident opinions to bolster their point of view.
Students will learn about the issues that framed both points of view by reading and viewing primary and secondary informational and digital sources. They will encounter a stark debate between John Dickinson, who argued for the Royalist view) and Benjamin Franklin, (who argued for the Patriot view) held on May 28, 1775, at the Continental Congress in Philadelphia, PA. Students will also read the speeches by Patrick Henry (Patriot) and Joseph Galloway (Royalist ). In addition, students will consider the events of the Boston Massacre and the question of where to but the blame (Royalist or Patriot instigation) for the outcome of that event. Based on evidence from all sources, students will argue for the justification of either the Patriot or the Royalist view and will present their arguments in an essay.
