Text of the Declaration

Worksheet Description

This worksheet centers on the cornerstone document in American history. Featuring excerpts from the Declaration itself, the worksheet juxtaposes specific passages from the text with a column titled “What does it mean?” This layout encourages students to read, reflect upon, and interpret the meanings behind the carefully crafted words of the Declaration. Through this analytical exercise, students are guided towards a deeper comprehension of the text’s significance and the ideals it encapsulates.

The primary objective of this worksheet is to foster a more profound understanding of the “Declaration of Independence” by guiding students through a textual analysis process. By presenting specific passages and prompting students to articulate their meanings, the worksheet emphasizes the importance of interpretation and critical thinking in historical analysis. The exercise pushes students to go beyond a surface-level reading, urging them to dissect and consider the deeper implications and significance of each excerpt. Ultimately, this approach aims to empower students to grasp the foundational principles and ideals that underpin the United States and its commitment to individual rights and governance by consent.