We do not always do a lot of formal learning during the summer, but Independence Day is always a nice chance to review early American history. Yes, we did learn about it last year. But since learning is a Line upon Line process, we’ll keep learning a little every year until my kids fly the nest.
Here are some free resources, websites, and places you can visit to learn about the Declaration of Independence in anticipation of the holiday.
- Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. If you can’t travel there, check out the information on this site!
- Monticello’s Classroom. Read about Thomas Jefferson’s role in writing the Declaration of Independence at this site by the Jefferson Foundation.
- Library of Congress Exhibit: Thomas Jefferson and the Declaration of Independence
- Short learning videos on various related topics on History.com (shows ads before content)
- Fascinating trivia about the Declaration of Independence
- BrainPop Video (subscription required)
- A detailed close-read lesson plan of the Declaration of Independence
- Declaration of Independence game for older kids
- Khan Academy videos
- TeachingHistory.org video
- Interactive exploration of Trumball’s painting
- Coloring Pages
- Free pop-up booklet about the Declaration of Independence
Suggestions? If you have another place, site, or resource to add to this list, let me know and I’ll add it.
If you are interested in more activities about American history, checkout my blog post series or buy the Brain Puzzler American Trivia game! It’s not only about the Declaration of Independence but it does provide plenty of American history and geography trivia fun for kids.
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