Analyzing the Declaration of Independence

11th Gradeβ€’42 minutesβ€’WME 601: Identify main ideas and supporting evidence across multiple texts. CLR 601: Draw logical conclusions supported by textual evidence.

Learning Objective

I can analyze the main ideas and supporting evidence in the Declaration of Independence to draw logical conclusions.

Key Concepts

The Declaration of Independence states that all men are created equal and have certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

According to the Declaration of Independence, governments are established to secure the rights of the people, deriving their power from the consent of the governed, reflecting the idea of popular sovereignty.

The Declaration asserts that if a government fails to protect the people's rights, the people have the right and duty to alter or abolish it and establish a new government that ensures their safety and security.

Practice Questions

This lesson includes 8 practice questions to reinforce learning.

View questions preview

1. According to the Declaration of Independence, what are unalienable rights?

2. What is the main purpose of government, according to the Declaration of Independence?

3. What principle is reflected in the idea that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed?

...and 5 more questions

Educational Video

Declaration of Independence | AP Gov | NEW!

Carey LaManna

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