Activity Overview
The original 13 American colonies serve as the foundation of America and its future expansion across the North American continent. The causes, effects, purpose, and culture of the original thirteen colonies are the primary elements that help students understand how this this first undertaking of land acquisition spread into something much greater.
Using a Frayer Model, students will identify and explain the major causes and effects of British North American colonists fighting for - and winning - the rights to America’s original thirteen colonies. Students will examine how the colonies were formed, how they functioned, and also how and why the idea of expansion was further peaked.
Extended Activity
Have students examine and analyze one colony or region of colonies (New England, Mid-Atlantic, or Southern). Using the Frayer Model storyboard, have students explain the function of each colony or region and the major roles it played not only as an original land expansion, but for future expansions as well. Reference “The Development of the Colonies” in our Events and Causes of the American Revolution lesson plans for further ideas.
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 frayer model describing the causes, effects, purpose, and culture of the original 13 colonies.
- Create "Start Assignment".
- Label the title boxes with "Causes", "Effects", "Purpose", and "Culture".
- Write a summary for each cell, describing how the colonies came to be, what they were created for, and what it was like living there.
- Create illustrations using appropriate scenes, items, and characters.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
The original 13 American colonies serve as the foundation of America and its future expansion across the North American continent. The causes, effects, purpose, and culture of the original thirteen colonies are the primary elements that help students understand how this this first undertaking of land acquisition spread into something much greater.
Using a Frayer Model, students will identify and explain the major causes and effects of British North American colonists fighting for - and winning - the rights to America’s original thirteen colonies. Students will examine how the colonies were formed, how they functioned, and also how and why the idea of expansion was further peaked.
Extended Activity
Have students examine and analyze one colony or region of colonies (New England, Mid-Atlantic, or Southern). Using the Frayer Model storyboard, have students explain the function of each colony or region and the major roles it played not only as an original land expansion, but for future expansions as well. Reference “The Development of the Colonies” in our Events and Causes of the American Revolution lesson plans for further ideas.
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 frayer model describing the causes, effects, purpose, and culture of the original 13 colonies.
- Create "Start Assignment".
- Label the title boxes with "Causes", "Effects", "Purpose", and "Culture".
- Write a summary for each cell, describing how the colonies came to be, what they were created for, and what it was like living there.
- Create illustrations using appropriate scenes, items, and characters.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about The Original 13 Colonies
How to Create an Interactive Colonial Map with Your Class
Engage students by having them collaborate on a large wall or digital map of the original 13 colonies. This hands-on activity helps reinforce geography and history while encouraging teamwork.
Assign each student or group a colony to research
Encourage teamwork as students investigate key facts about their assigned colony, including founding year, economic activities, and significant events. Assigning ownership boosts engagement and learning.
Have students create visual markers or symbols for their colony
Ask students to design and craft colorful cutouts, symbols, or mini-flags representing their colony's unique features. This step fosters creativity and makes the map more memorable.
Guide the class in assembling the map together
Bring the class together to place each colony marker on the correct geographic location. Discuss the relationships and differences between regions as you build the map. Collaboration reinforces spatial understanding.
Facilitate a gallery walk and student presentations
Invite students to present their colony to peers during a gallery walk. Encourage questions and connections to modern regions. Presentation skills and peer-to-peer learning are enhanced.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Original 13 Colonies
What were the main causes and effects of the original 13 colonies?
The main causes of the original 13 colonies included the search for religious freedom, economic opportunity, and expansion of British influence. The effects were the development of unique colonial cultures, increasing tensions with Britain, and eventual steps toward independence and further territorial expansion.
How can I teach students about the culture of the 13 colonies using a Frayer Model?
To teach about the culture of the 13 colonies with a Frayer Model, have students define key aspects, provide examples (like religious practices or daily life), illustrate scenes, and explain how different regions developed distinct traditions.
What is the Frayer Model and how is it used in history lessons?
The Frayer Model is a graphic organizer that helps students understand concepts by dividing information into categories such as definition, characteristics, examples, and non-examples. In history, it helps break down complex topics like the causes and effects of the 13 colonies.
What purpose did the original 13 colonies serve for Britain?
The original 13 colonies served Britain as sources of raw materials, new markets for goods, and strategic outposts for expanding British power in North America.
How did the regions of the 13 colonies differ from each other?
The New England, Mid-Atlantic, and Southern colonies each developed unique economies, cultures, and social structures due to differences in geography, climate, and founding purposes. For example, New England focused on shipping and religion, while the South relied on agriculture and plantations.
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