Unit 2 Study Guide

In The Autobiography, what was Franklin’s plan in trying “to acquire the habitude of these virtues”?

In The Autobiography, which virtue does Franklin find most difficult to achieve? Why?

In Poor Richard’s Almanack, Benjamin Franklin lists several wise sayings. List and explain at least three of Franklin’s sayings.

How does The Crisis, Number 1, appeal to common people? What types of language and persuasion does it use to relate to people like farmers, tradesmen, or shopkeepers?

In The Crisis, Number 1 Thomas Paine intentionally uses the connotative words impious and infidel. In effect, to what/who is Paine comparing the British? How do these words add to the emotional argument Paine is making?

In "The Declaration of Independence” what are some of Jefferson’s complaints against the king?

In "The Declaration of Independence," why does Jefferson rely mainly upon logic, as opposed to emotional persuasion? What logical points does he make? How does his audience (the king of England) affect his style of writing?

In "The Declaration of Independence," Jefferson lists many English abuses of the colonists. Among these abuses is a long list of military actions that he feels are unwarranted. What are these military actions, and how does he believe they will affect the colonists?

In addition to citing the abuses of the English government in " The Declaration of Independence," Jefferson specifically notes the lengths to which the colonists have gone to avoid war. What have the colonists done to avoid war?

What is Patrick Henry’s main goal in his “Speech in the Virginia Convention”? What tone does he use to achieve this goal?

In "Speech in the Virginia Convention" what logical arguments does Patrick Henry present? What emotional arguments does he present?

What is Benjamin Franklin’s main goal in his “Speech in the (Constitutional) Convention”? What tone does he use to achieve this?

In “Speech in the Convention,” Benjamin Franklin states many reasons that the delegates should sign the Constitution, despite its flaws. What are they? Consider: The needs and expectations of the people The expectations & desires of our enemies The legacy left to future generations of Americans

In “Speech in the Convention,” Benjamin Franklin states that any document that is formed by a committee will be imperfect. Why?