Activity Overview
In this activity, students will use a grid storyboard to detail excerpts from the Declaration of Independence and explain what it means to them. The significance should stem from a historically based opinion, supporting the wording of the document with factually correct ideas. By putting excerpts alongside student’s interpretation, students will be able to dig deeper into the document and it can prompt classroom discussion. Students will be able to analyze and explain what each excerpt they select from the Declaration means to them, while also analyzing the language, text, and major ideas from the document itself.
Extended Activity
Have students select excerpts from France’s Declaration of Rights of Man, and connect what it might mean to them with how it was influenced by the American Declaration of Independence. This will again allow deeper analysis as well as a connective force between two seminal documents.
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 illustrates what you think the Declaration of Independence means.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the top row, identify 3 different quotes or excerpts from the Declaration.
- In the bottom row, describe what those quotes mean to you.
- Create an illustration for each cell with appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
In this activity, students will use a grid storyboard to detail excerpts from the Declaration of Independence and explain what it means to them. The significance should stem from a historically based opinion, supporting the wording of the document with factually correct ideas. By putting excerpts alongside student’s interpretation, students will be able to dig deeper into the document and it can prompt classroom discussion. Students will be able to analyze and explain what each excerpt they select from the Declaration means to them, while also analyzing the language, text, and major ideas from the document itself.
Extended Activity
Have students select excerpts from France’s Declaration of Rights of Man, and connect what it might mean to them with how it was influenced by the American Declaration of Independence. This will again allow deeper analysis as well as a connective force between two seminal documents.
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 illustrates what you think the Declaration of Independence means.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the top row, identify 3 different quotes or excerpts from the Declaration.
- In the bottom row, describe what those quotes mean to you.
- Create an illustration for each cell with appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Analyzing the Declaration of Independence: What Does it Mean?
How to Guide Students in Citing Evidence from Historical Texts
Model citing specific phrases from the Declaration by reading an excerpt aloud, highlighting a key phrase, and explaining how it supports a main idea. Demonstrate how to connect the quote to their interpretation using sentence stems like “This shows…” or “This means because…”.
Encourage Students to Paraphrase in Their Own Words
Ask students to explain excerpts using everyday language before writing their formal responses. This deepens comprehension and helps them internalize meaning.
Facilitate Small Group Discussions on Excerpt Meanings
Organize students into groups to share their interpretations of selected quotes. Encourage them to ask clarifying questions and respectfully challenge each other’s ideas to promote critical thinking.
Provide Sentence Starters for Historical Analysis
Give students sentence stems such as “This excerpt is important because…” or “The author’s purpose was likely…” to scaffold their analytical writing and speaking.
Review and Celebrate Creative Connections
Host a gallery walk or showcase where students display their storyboard interpretations. Encourage positive feedback and reflection on differing perspectives to build a supportive classroom community.
Frequently Asked Questions about Analyzing the Declaration of Independence: What Does it Mean?
How can high school students analyze the Declaration of Independence in a classroom activity?
High school students can analyze the Declaration of Independence by selecting excerpts, explaining their meaning, and supporting their interpretations with historical evidence. Using a storyboard grid, students pair quotes with personal explanations to deepen understanding and encourage classroom discussion.
What is a storyboard grid activity for teaching the Declaration of Independence?
A storyboard grid activity involves students choosing excerpts from the Declaration of Independence, summarizing their meaning, and illustrating each scene. This visual approach helps students interpret the document and connect with its main ideas in a creative, engaging way.
How do I help students connect the Declaration of Independence to the Declaration of the Rights of Man?
Encourage students to compare excerpts from both documents and discuss influences and similarities. Ask them to analyze how ideas from the American Declaration inspired France's Declaration of the Rights of Man, fostering a deeper understanding of historical connections.
What are effective questions to ask students about the meaning of the Declaration of Independence?
Ask students: What does this excerpt mean to you? Why do you think the authors chose this wording? How does this idea relate to modern society? Such questions prompt personal reflection and critical analysis of the text.
Why is it important for students to explain the significance of Declaration of Independence excerpts?
Explaining the significance helps students develop historical thinking skills, understand the document’s impact, and connect its principles to current events. This approach encourages deeper learning and personal engagement with foundational texts.
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Declaration of Independence
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