Reading like a reader

In the Background section of the text: • annotate/mark the reason for the development of the DOI. • What personal connections can you make to the Background section or the reason for the development of the DOI?

Reading like a writer

Examine the sentences in paragraphs 1-3 • What might the length and structure of the sentences indicate?

Reading like a critic

In paragraph 2: • Who is the audience? • Who/what does the writer say entitles the colonies to have rights? In paragraph 3:• Read the following excerpt:

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness...”

• In what ways is this statement a paradox? Elaborate.

• What strong language is used to convey negative emotions about Great Britian?

In paragraphs 4-8: • Mark the “crimes” the writer believes the King/Great Britian has committed against the colonists.

In Paragraphs 9-23: • Mark ways Britian harmed the American economy. In paragraphs 24-27:

• Mark the verbs plundered, ravaged, burnt, and destroyed in paragraph 27.

How do these words describe how Jefferson feels about the King’s character?

Reading like a change agent ( 1 PARAGRAPH)

• In what ways can you declare “independence” from ideologies that do not align with your core values?