Common Sense Arguments Analysis

As students read Common Sense, they should be able to identify and understand the different arguments Paine is making. Using a frayer model (or a spider map), students will identify one of Paine's major arguments, summarize it, and create a visualization to help further their understanding. This activity will help them put the later actions taken by the colonists into context.

As extended activity, students will create a spider map that represents what they found to be the four strongest arguments for independence. Students will be able to create a similar storyboard from the activity.

1. Of the Origin and Design of Government in general, with concise Remarks on the English Constitution
2. Of Monarchy and Hereditary Succession
3. Thoughts on the Present State of American Affairs
4. On the Present Ability of America, with some Miscellaneous Reflections

Student Instructions

Create a storyboard that describes one of Paine's major arguments in Common Sense.

1. Click "Start Assignment".
2. In the center title, identify the overall argument that Paine makes.
3. In each cell, identify the components of the argument.
4. In each description box, describe or summarize the argument.
5. Create images using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.