Activity Overview
Theme: Histories of Independence
Grade Band: Elementary (Upper Grades 3–5)
This activity introduces students to the meaning and language of the Declaration of Independence. Through vocabulary study, reading, and discussion, students explore how cooperation, conflict, and resolution shaped the American Revolution. The activity helps learners connect the historical quest for freedom with modern expressions of fairness, communication, and understanding.
This lesson aligns with New Mexico’s statewide recognition of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. As part of The American Revolution: 250 Years since the Declaration of Independence initiative, schools are encouraged to connect this classroom activity to Constitution Day and Citizenship Day on or near September 17, fostering reflection on civic responsibility and shared values.
Time Required
45–60 minutes
Materials Needed
- Vocabulary worksheets (fill-in-the-blank, word matching, crossword, or word search)
- Chart paper or whiteboard
- Copies of recommended books
- Writing materials or journals
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Identify key vocabulary and ideas from the Declaration of Independence.
- Understand how conflicts can be resolved through communication and collaboration.
- Recognize how individuals and groups worked together to create change during the American Revolution.
- Connect historical independence to personal and community actions that demonstrate equity and cooperation.
Essential Questions
- What is the purpose of the Declaration of Independence?
- How did the colonists express their ideas and resolve conflict?
- What can we learn from the way they worked together?
- How can we show cooperation and equity in our own classroom or community?
Inspired Conversation Topics
- Discuss what systems help your class work well together.
- Explore how characters in the stories showed courage or kindness.
- Talk about what conflict means and how people can resolve disagreements respectfully.
- Imagine writing a “Declaration of Equity ” for your classroom. What would it include?
Connection to Statewide Theme
The Introduction to the Declaration of Independence activity helps students explore the principles of cooperation, independence, and fairness that inspired the nation’s founders. Teachers may extend this learning by linking it to Constitution Day assemblies or school-wide celebrations of The American Revolution: 250 Years since the Declaration of Independence.
Learn more:
- NM250 All-School Toolkit – The American Revolution: 250 Years since the Declaration of Independence
- U.S. Code §106 – Constitution Day and Citizenship Day
Educator Resources & Links
- 4 Engaging Ways to Introduce The Declaration of Independence
- The Declaration of Independence
- Teach the Declaration of Independence
- Too Late to Apologize Music Video
- The Declaration of Independence: Differentiated Learning Activity for grades 4-5
- Declaration of Independence Unit with fill in the blank, word matching, and crossword puzzle
- Worksheet: Learn about the Declaration of Independence grades 3-4
- Word Search & Answer Sheet for Grade 5
- Schoolhouse Rock: Fireworks (Declaration of Independence)
- Schoolhouse Rock! The Preamble (to the Constitution)
- School House Rock: I’m Just a Bill
- School House Rock: Shot Heard Round the World
- A Teacher’s Guide to Revolutionary War Movies
- U.S. Code §106 – Constitution Day and Citizenship Day
- Constitution Day Classroom Activities – National Archives Education
Book List
- The Declaration of Independence (America’s Most Important Documents: Inquiry into Historical Sources)
- The Journey of the One and Only Declaration of Independence Grades 2-5
- What Is the Declaration of Independence? Grades 3-7
- George vs. George: The American Revolution as Seen from Two Sides Grades 3-7
- A Spy Called James: The True Story of James Lafayette, Revolutionary War Double Agent
- Her name was Mary Katherine: The Only Woman Whose Name Is on the Declaration of Independence Ages 7-10
- Meet Felicity: An American Girl 1774, Ages 7-10
- A Peacemaker for Warring Nations: The Founding of the Iroquois League
- Mumbet’s Declaration of Independence