Give Me Liberty or Give Me Tea!
How did Colonists spread their ideas about colonial independence?
 

Introduction for Teachers

Designed by Patricia Altenburger and Jennifer Kalletta (patricia.altenburger@fcps.edu and jennifer.kalletta@fcps.edu). Last updated January 20, 2006 .

This lesson was developed as part of An Adventure of the American Mind Northern Virginia Partnership (AAMNVA), a federally funded professional development program to assist educators in using Library of Congress primary resources to support student learning.

“Give me Liberty of Give me Tea: A Prelude to the American Revolution” could serve as an introduction to the American Revolutionary War.  In the LibraryQuest, the students explore the reasons why colonists rebelled against England by analyzing primary sources from the late 1770’s.  These sources include the text of the Stamp Act, political cartoons, and Patrick Henry’s speech. Finally, the students synthesize their understanding by assuming a loyalist or patriot stance and then creating a persuasive product to promote their position.     

School District and State: Fairfax County Public Schools, Virginia

Title: Give Me Liberty or Give Me Tea: A prelude to the American Revolution

Conceptual Unit Question: How did colonists spread their ideas about colonial independence?

Enduring Understanding(s): People react to inequity.

Key Concepts and Knowledge Goals: Understanding of Stamp Act, Intolerable Acts, and Patrick Henry.

Skill Goals: View, describe, and analyze primary sources. Create a persuasive argument in the form of a creative project.

Other materials and resources needed that are not listed in resource section:

  • Laptop or computer lab and computer headphones.
  • Clipboards, pencil, and LibraryQuest worksheets.
  • All worksheets in the “Teacher” process section are word documents and maybe modified.
Back to Top

Pat Altenburger & Jennifer Kalletta © 2005