Revolutionary War Writing Activities

Writing Example 1 Writing Example 2
Is Recess an Unalienable Right? Propaganda and the Boston Massacre
 
Rivalries - This French and Indian War activity explains the centuries-old rivalry between England and France that shaped America's early history and then challenges students to write about a rivalry in their life, or, in sports, movies, or literature.
Propaganda and the Boston Massacre - This activity requires students to examine the famous Paul Revere hyperbolic engraving depicting the Boston Massacre before the Revolutionary War. How was Paul Revere’s depiction of the Boston Massacre different from what really happened?
Unfair Punishments - This writing prompts requires students to relate to the unfair punishments issued to the American colonists after the Boston Tea Party by detailing the most unfair punishment they've ever experienced, and the reasons why they were punished.
The Power of the Boycott - This activity requires students to think about the concept of boycott and to write about a modern product, service, or, organization, that they think is worthy of such a protest today!
Is Recess an Unalienable Right? - This writing prompt requires students to understand the concept of unalienable rights and then to form a persuasive essay on whether recess is a right or privilege that teachers should be able to take away.
The $4 Declaration of Independence - This fun story-writing prompt tells the story of a Philadelphia man who found an original copy of the Declaration of Independence behind an old painting that he bought for $4.00. The prompt challenges students to tell a similar tale of how they find a valuable historical artifact in an improbable place.
The Underdog - This prompt outlines describes the concept of the underdog and how the Americans were underdogs during the Revolutionary War. Students must write about a time when they were the underdog, or, about a character in literature, movies, or sports, that won as the underdog.
The Battle of Trenton - A Moral Victory - This activity describes the Patriot "moral victory" at Trenton and prompts students to write about a different moral victory they've experienced, or, can identify from sports, literature, or movies.
The Redemption of Benedict Arnold- This prompt requires students to examine the life of Benedict Arnold and to write a letter than attempts to redeem him in American history. The prompt ENCOURAGES students to use hyperbole, perspective, and to downplay facts not favorable to Arnold in this argument.
The Turning Point - This activity requires students to understand how the Battle of Saratoga was the turning point in the war and to think of explain turning points in their own lives, in sports, or in the lives of literary characters.
Letters From Valley Forge - This activity requires students to play the role of a soldier camped during the dreadful winter of 1777-78 at Valley Forge. Students must use their knowledge of the conditions and morale at Valley Forge to pen a letter to a friend or family member describing the misery.
The Glaring Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation - This prompt outlines the major weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and requires students to choose and explain the most "glaring" weakness.
The Great Compromise - This Constitutional Convention writing prompt explains the Great Compromise, which led to the adoption of the United States Constitution, and challenges students to write about a compromise they've made.

The Art of the Deal - The Compromise and the Art of the Deal prompt explores how Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison made a secret agreement in 1790 that shaped the nation’s future — trading Hamilton’s financial plan for the new capital’s southern location along the Potomac. It invites students to connect this historic political bargain to their own experiences with negotiation, compromise, and finding common ground.
And Justice for ALL- The Justice for All prompt highlights how John Adams risked his reputation to defend the British soldiers accused in the Boston Massacre, standing up for fairness even when the public demanded revenge. It encourages students to reflect on the courage it takes to protect justice and truth, even when doing so is unpopular.
Frenemies - John Adams and Thomas Jefferson - The Frenemies prompt explores the complicated relationship between John Adams and Thomas Jefferson — two friends turned rivals who eventually rediscovered mutual respect through years of heartfelt letters. It invites students to consider how conflict, forgiveness, and understanding can strengthen relationships and help people grow.
Justice or Mercy? - The Justice or Mercy prompt examines George Washington’s difficult decision to execute British officer Major John André after Benedict Arnold’s betrayal, balancing compassion against the need for fairness and discipline. It challenges students to think about when it is better to show mercy and when justice must take priority.
Sacrifice - The Sacrifice for a Greater Cause prompt tells the story of Nathan Hale, a young patriot who gave his life while spying for the Continental Army and declared he had only one life to lose for his country. It encourages students to reflect on what it means to give up something important for a belief, a goal, or the good of others.
Hope - The Hope in Times of Uncertainty prompt focuses on George Washington’s determination during the darkest days of the Revolution, when defeat seemed certain after losses in New York. It inspires students to think about how hope and faith can help people persevere through impossible circumstances.
Impossible Circumstances - The Perseverance and Endurance prompt centers on George Washington’s leadership during the brutal winter at Valley Forge, where hunger, cold, and doubt tested every soldier’s spirit. It encourages students to consider how true strength often means enduring hardship and continuing forward when giving up would be easier.

Virtual History Teacher - Studies in Elaboration - These fun activities requires students to role play as history teachers grading student tests that reflect poor efforts. "Teachers" must grade the tests and then elaborate on student answers to make them complete answers.

Boston Massacre | Boston Tea Party | Thomas Jefferson | Crispus Attucks | George Washington