Activity Overview
Not all colonies were formed by great explorers, and not every one was formed for the same reasons. In this activity, students will compare and contrast the two early English settlements of Jamestown and Plymouth. This activity requires students to create a grid storyboard (suggested size is 4x2 or 6x2). Students will use their research to identify the following aspects of both colonies:
- Location
- Reasons for Each Settlement
- Difficulties faced
- Governments
- Interactions and treatment of Native Americans
- Religious Differences
Students Can Collaborate!
Teachers may wish for students to work together on this lesson which is possible with Storyboard That's Real Time Collaboration feature! With Real Time Collaboration, students can work on the same storyboard at the same time which is perfect for this lesson! As teachers know, collaborating on assignments allows students to think on a deeper level while increasing their communication and problem-solving skills. Collaboration can also help cut down on the time it takes to complete a storyboard. While there is no set limit to the number of users who can work on a storyboard at once, we recommend five users or fewer for optimal performance. All of our assignments default to individual. To make this lesson collaborative, teachers must enable collaboration for the assignment within the "Edit Assignment" tab.
Extended Activity
Students can create a timeline or timeline poster that represents the major events that took place in one, or both, of the colonies. Students will represent events such as the initial landing, establishment of government, numerous hardships encountered, and a major unique event for either Jamestown or Plymouth.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a grid comparing and contrasting the Jamestown and Plymouth settlements.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the top titles, label each aspect (location, reasons for settlement, difficulties faced, government, interaction with Native Americans, and religious differences).
- In the first row, describe each aspect and how it pertains to either Jamestown or Plymouth.
- In the bottom row, describe each aspect of the remaining settlement.
- Create images to illustrate each cell using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison Analysis | Text and images include a clear explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics. These comparisons go beyond superficial elements and show strong understanding. | Text and images include an explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics, but the explanation may lack clarity or show only superficial understanding in some squares. | Text and images may include no explanation of similarities and/or differences, or they may make only superficial or inaccurate comparisons. |
| Storyboard Image and Effort | Student clearly shows effort to convey the setting, characters and specific scene of the book. The scene is clearly identifiable based on the graphic depiction. | Student attempts to convey the setting, characters, and specific scene through use of graphics, but the depiction may be confusing, disordered, or lack some detail. | Student does not clearly convey the setting, characters, and scene. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student uses exemplary spelling and grammar. There are no errors. | Student makes one or two minor errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
Activity Overview
Not all colonies were formed by great explorers, and not every one was formed for the same reasons. In this activity, students will compare and contrast the two early English settlements of Jamestown and Plymouth. This activity requires students to create a grid storyboard (suggested size is 4x2 or 6x2). Students will use their research to identify the following aspects of both colonies:
- Location
- Reasons for Each Settlement
- Difficulties faced
- Governments
- Interactions and treatment of Native Americans
- Religious Differences
Students Can Collaborate!
Teachers may wish for students to work together on this lesson which is possible with Storyboard That's Real Time Collaboration feature! With Real Time Collaboration, students can work on the same storyboard at the same time which is perfect for this lesson! As teachers know, collaborating on assignments allows students to think on a deeper level while increasing their communication and problem-solving skills. Collaboration can also help cut down on the time it takes to complete a storyboard. While there is no set limit to the number of users who can work on a storyboard at once, we recommend five users or fewer for optimal performance. All of our assignments default to individual. To make this lesson collaborative, teachers must enable collaboration for the assignment within the "Edit Assignment" tab.
Extended Activity
Students can create a timeline or timeline poster that represents the major events that took place in one, or both, of the colonies. Students will represent events such as the initial landing, establishment of government, numerous hardships encountered, and a major unique event for either Jamestown or Plymouth.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a grid comparing and contrasting the Jamestown and Plymouth settlements.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the top titles, label each aspect (location, reasons for settlement, difficulties faced, government, interaction with Native Americans, and religious differences).
- In the first row, describe each aspect and how it pertains to either Jamestown or Plymouth.
- In the bottom row, describe each aspect of the remaining settlement.
- Create images to illustrate each cell using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison Analysis | Text and images include a clear explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics. These comparisons go beyond superficial elements and show strong understanding. | Text and images include an explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics, but the explanation may lack clarity or show only superficial understanding in some squares. | Text and images may include no explanation of similarities and/or differences, or they may make only superficial or inaccurate comparisons. |
| Storyboard Image and Effort | Student clearly shows effort to convey the setting, characters and specific scene of the book. The scene is clearly identifiable based on the graphic depiction. | Student attempts to convey the setting, characters, and specific scene through use of graphics, but the depiction may be confusing, disordered, or lack some detail. | Student does not clearly convey the setting, characters, and scene. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student uses exemplary spelling and grammar. There are no errors. | Student makes one or two minor errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
How Tos about Comparing Jamestown and Plymouth Colonies
How to Facilitate a Classroom Debate on Jamestown vs. Plymouth
Organize a lively debate where students defend either Jamestown or Plymouth using their research. Debates help students practice critical thinking and public speaking while deepening understanding of each colony's unique challenges and achievements.
Assign debate teams and roles
Divide your class into two teams, one representing Jamestown and the other Plymouth. Assign roles such as researcher, speaker, and note-taker to ensure everyone participates and stays engaged.
Guide students to gather evidence
Encourage students to use their storyboard grids and other research to find supporting facts about their assigned colony. Evidence-based arguments make the debate more effective and educational.
Set clear debate rules and timing
Establish simple ground rules, like respectful listening and time limits for each team. This structure keeps the debate focused and allows all voices to be heard.
Reflect and discuss the debate outcome
Facilitate a class discussion after the debate to review key points and reflect on what students learned about both colonies. This step reinforces understanding and builds collaborative skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about Comparing Jamestown and Plymouth Colonies
What are the main differences between Jamestown and Plymouth colonies?
Jamestown was founded in 1607 for economic gain and was located in Virginia. Plymouth, established in 1620 in present-day Massachusetts, was settled for religious freedom. The two colonies differed in their reasons for settlement, approaches to government, interactions with Native Americans, and religious practices.
How can students compare Jamestown and Plymouth in a classroom activity?
Students can create a grid storyboard comparing aspects like location, reasons for settlement, difficulties faced, government, Native American relations, and religious differences. Using visuals and text helps them organize and present their research effectively.
Why is collaboration helpful when comparing historical colonies like Jamestown and Plymouth?
Collaboration encourages deeper thinking, better communication, and problem-solving. When students work together on activities such as storyboards, they can share ideas and complete projects more efficiently, improving learning outcomes.
What challenges did Jamestown and Plymouth settlers face?
Both colonies faced harsh conditions like disease, food shortages, and difficult weather. Jamestown struggled with leadership and hostile relations, while Plymouth settlers faced harsh winters and limited resources but benefited from alliances with Native Americans.
What is the best way to create a visual comparison of Jamestown and Plymouth for middle school students?
The best way is to use a grid storyboard or timeline poster. Students label each aspect (like government or religion), fill in details for each colony, and illustrate with appropriate images to support understanding and engagement.
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