National Endowment for the Humanities
Colonizing the Bay
Eleventh graders review the goals of John Winthrop. In this American History lesson, 11th graders read Winthrop's speech and summarize his key points. Students predict the possibilities for success and failure in the Massachusetts Bay...
Constitutional Rights Foundation
Puritan Massachusetts: Theocracy or Democracy?
Was Puritan society governed as more of a theocracy or democracy? After comparing and contrasting a series of primary source documents, middle and high schoolers form small groups and debate the question.
Curated OER
Is All Fair In War?
Pupils read the 1755 Bounty Proclamation and discuss what happened in Maine during this time period. With a partner, they use the text and dictionary to look up any word they do not know. They participate in a think, pair, share to...
Curated OER
The Trading Post with the Most: Colonial Dorchester's Settlement and Economy
Eighth graders explore the Dorchester settlement, In this American colonial history instructional activity, 8th graders examine primary resources and maps from the Dorchester trading post in order to learn about its contributions to the...
Curated OER
Social Studies Review for Grade 4 (4.1)
In this social studies review for grade 4 (4.1) worksheet, 4th graders answer 25 multiple choice questions in standardized test format about U.S. history.
Curated OER
Mapping Community Values
Students discuss the origin of various maps focusing on the values behind them. Students also explore how human needs and geography influence community settlement patterns. Students extend learning by creating and mapping their own ideal...
Curated OER
Understanding Freedom: Catching "The Spirit of '76"
Sixth graders complete activities about colonial history through an examination of art from the American Revolution period. In this history and art lesson, 6th graders define an iconic image, sing the song 'Yankee Doodle,' and analyze...
Curated OER
John Winthrop
In this online interactive history quiz worksheet, students respond to 10 short answer and essay questions about the life and accomplishments of John Winthrop.
Curated OER
What is the (No) Establishment Clause?
Students research and discuss the Establishment Clause.
Curated OER
The Mayflower Compact
Middle schoolers use primary source documents to discuss the Mayflower Compact and the story of the first Thanksgiving. They discover how the Pilgrims were influenced in developing a community and American democracy.