This morning I was thinking about an assignment I give my U.S. History students. Now, I know that in the past I have shared with you some of the less-than-stellar examples of my students’ efforts. This time, let me share something that worked out pretty well. It’s not as funny, but it may be worth thinking about as we celebrate our Freedom.
Each year, when we study the Revolution, I put my students into groups and ask them to paraphrase a portion of the Declaration of Independence. We begin with, “We hold these truths to be self-evident” and continue through, “Laying its foundations on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to their Safety and Happiness.” Every teacher knows that one of the best ways to show that you understand a concept is to put it in your own words. Here’s how my students put it. (Note: it’s not always, or even often, this good. For extra credit, try paraphrasing the passage yourself before you read this.)
The Call of Freedom There are some things we think are pretty obvious. First, everyone is made equal. Second, God has given everyone rights that no one can take away—like the right to live, the right to be free, and the right to go after your dreams. Second, the job of the Government is to protect these rights. Third, Government gets its power from the people, and with their permission. Finally, if the Government ignores or tries to take away the rights of the people, the people should change the government. If the Government is so bad that changing it won’t work, the people should throw it out and create a new Government. The people should create the kind of Government that will keep them safe and happy.
A little 8th Grade wisdom for you on this Independence Day.