Activity Overview
As students read Common Sense, they should be able to identify and understand the different arguments Paine is making. Using a frayer model (or a spider map), students will identify one of Paine's major arguments, summarize it, and create a visualization to help further their understanding. This activity will help them put the later actions taken by the colonists into context.
As extended activity, students will create a spider map that represents what they found to be the four strongest arguments for independence. Students will be able to create a similar storyboard from the activity.
- Of the Origin and Design of Government in general, with concise Remarks on the English Constitution
- Of Monarchy and Hereditary Succession
- Thoughts on the Present State of American Affairs
- On the Present Ability of America, with some Miscellaneous Reflections
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 storyboard that describes one of Paine's major arguments in Common Sense.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the center title, identify the overall argument that Paine makes.
- In each cell, identify the components of the argument.
- In each description box, describe or summarize the argument.
- Create images using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
As students read Common Sense, they should be able to identify and understand the different arguments Paine is making. Using a frayer model (or a spider map), students will identify one of Paine's major arguments, summarize it, and create a visualization to help further their understanding. This activity will help them put the later actions taken by the colonists into context.
As extended activity, students will create a spider map that represents what they found to be the four strongest arguments for independence. Students will be able to create a similar storyboard from the activity.
- Of the Origin and Design of Government in general, with concise Remarks on the English Constitution
- Of Monarchy and Hereditary Succession
- Thoughts on the Present State of American Affairs
- On the Present Ability of America, with some Miscellaneous Reflections
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 storyboard that describes one of Paine's major arguments in Common Sense.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the center title, identify the overall argument that Paine makes.
- In each cell, identify the components of the argument.
- In each description box, describe or summarize the argument.
- Create images using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Common Sense Arguments Analysis
How to Facilitate a Debate on Paine’s Arguments in Your Classroom
Encouraging debate helps students deepen understanding of complex texts like Common Sense. This approach promotes critical thinking and allows students to respectfully discuss differing viewpoints.
Assign students to argument teams
Divide your class into small groups, with each group assigned one of Paine’s major arguments. Teams will prepare to defend or challenge their assigned argument during the debate.
Provide debate structure and roles
Define clear roles—such as speaker, note-taker, and rebuttal leader—for each team. Outline the debate format so expectations are consistent and every student participates.
Support students in gathering evidence
Guide teams to find quotes and examples from Common Sense that support their positions. Encourage them to consider both Paine’s points and possible counterarguments.
Facilitate and moderate the classroom debate
Monitor the debate to ensure respectful dialogue and time limits. Prompt students to explain their reasoning and respond thoughtfully to opposing views.
Reflect on debate outcomes as a class
Lead a brief reflection where students share what they learned and how their opinions evolved. Highlight the value of considering multiple perspectives.
Frequently Asked Questions about Common Sense Arguments Analysis
What are the main arguments Thomas Paine makes in Common Sense?
Thomas Paine's Common Sense presents key arguments for American independence, including criticism of monarchy and hereditary succession, the flaws of the English Constitution, the benefits of self-government, and the urgent need for the colonies to break from British rule.
How can I teach Common Sense arguments using a frayer model or spider map?
To teach Common Sense arguments, have students select a major argument, summarize it, and use a frayer model or spider map to visualize its components. This helps students organize ideas and deepen understanding through creative mapping and summarization.
What is a good storyboard activity for analyzing Paine's Common Sense?
Ask students to create a storyboard that outlines one of Paine's main arguments. Each cell should break down part of the argument, with descriptions and relevant images, helping students visually and textually engage with the historical content.
Why is it important for students to identify Paine's strongest arguments for independence?
Identifying Paine's strongest arguments helps students understand the historical context of the American Revolution, see how persuasive rhetoric influenced colonial actions, and build critical thinking by analyzing evidence and reasoning in primary sources.
What are effective ways to help students summarize Paine's arguments in Common Sense?
Encourage students to use graphic organizers like spider maps or frayer models, write concise summaries, and discuss examples in groups. Visualizing arguments and breaking them into parts makes complex ideas more accessible.
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