Was Thomas Jefferson a hypocrite? Tackle this question with primary source analysis and an essay. The packet includes historical background, a writing prompt, a combined outline and checklist, and ten primary documents paired with questions. This is a well-scaffolded resource that will guide your class through analysis and writing.

Concepts

primary source analysis, primary sources, thomas jefferson, united states presidents, slavery

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Additional Tags

thomas jefferson, slavery, document based essay, primary sources, primary document analysis, social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Since there are 10 documents to analyze, spread them out over several days of class
• Have small groups analyze the documents to add a scaffold; individuals can take what they built in groups and use it to support their written arguments

Classroom Considerations

• You may wish to change the writing prompt to say was rather than is, since Thomas Jefferson is no longer alive

Pros

• The included outline will help learners organize their work and ensure that they include all the necessary parts
• The provided primary documents come with details, transcriptions when necessary, and analysis questions

Cons

• None

Common Core

RH.6-8.1 RH.6-8.6 WHST.6-8.1.a