Understand the Passion Behind the Declaration of Independence

Declaring Your Independence!

Goals for this Activity: . Understand the passion behind the Declaration of Independence. . Understand the format of the Declaration of Independence. . Understand that there was purpose behind everything that the Framers did.

Expectations for this Activity:  Make sure each section stands out on its own.  This must be typed, and/or presented creatively as to simulate how the Declaration of Independence was presented.  Check for spelling and grammar.  Most of all, be passionate and descriptive.

The Activity: You are now or will soon be 18 years-old. You have lived under the tyrannical rule of your parents all that time (as well as mooched off of them!) and now it is time for you to cut your ties with your parents - claim your independence! Using the format the Framers created to declare their independence from Britain, create your own Declaration of Independence!

Include the following:

Preamble: The Framers had specific reasons for declaring their independence at that juncture. State the purpose of this declaration. Look closely at the preamble of the Declaration of Independence and try to “introduce” your issues with your parents - decide why you are declaring your independence.

The Political Theory of the Declaration: The Framers had a philosophy behind the need for the Declaration of Independence and a political theory to support their separation with Britain. Of course your theory is not necessarily political, but what is desired is an explanation of why it is you are ready to move out of the house. What characteristics do you possess which allow you to move out and live on your own? In the big picture, why must people, at some time or another, move out from underneath their parents?

Injuries and Usurpations: The Framers took great care to list what issues they had with Britain. So must you! List and explain the grievous acts your parents have committed against you. What specific actions require that you must now declare your independence? Feel the passion of the Framers - they had some very specific issues with Britain, now list your issues.