Activity Overview
A T Chart is the perfect way to compare two sides of a debate or battle. When studying the forces involved in the American Revolution, it's helpful for students to have this visual comparison on hand. The war was full of advantages and disadvantages for both sides. What served as an advantage to the American forces in the war consequently often served as a disadvantage to the British and vice versa.
In this activity, students will make a T Chart to explain and analyze the advantages and disadvantages of both American and British forces during the revolution. By creating a grid to display a contextual and visual comparative of both forces, students will better gain an understanding as to the manner of how the war was fought and, eventually, won.
Some of the things students can compare include
- The Will and Drive to Fight
- Geography and Landscape
- Military Technology
- Forces and Men
- Fighting Style
- Aid and Assistance
Students Can Collaborate!
Teachers may wish for students to work together on this lesson which is possible with Storyboard That's Real Time Collaboration feature! With Real Time Collaboration, students can work on the same storyboard at the same time which is perfect for this lesson! As teachers know, collaborating on assignments allows students to think on a deeper level while increasing their communication and problem-solving skills. Collaboration can also help cut down on the time it takes to complete a storyboard. While there is no set limit to the number of users who can work on a storyboard at once, we recommend five users or fewer for optimal performance. All of our assignments default to individual. To make this lesson collaborative, teachers must enable collaboration for the assignment within the "Edit Assignment" tab.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a T Chart describing the advantages and disadvantages of the American and British forces during the American Revolution.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Label one column "British Forces" and the other "American Forces"
- In the title boxes, identify the different categories you're comparing.
- Describe whether it was a disadvantage or advantage and why in the description box.
- Create an illustration with appropriate characters, scenes, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How to Teach the Advantages and Disadvantages of British and American Forces through Storyboarding
Introduction to the Battle of Lexington and Concord
Begin by discussing the importance of inquiry-based learning and its role in historical understanding. Write the terms "Lexington" and "Concord" on the board and ask students what they know about these places and their significance in American history. To pique students' interest and curiosity, show a brief video clip or images related to Lexington and Concord.
Introduction to the Battle of Lexington and Concord
Distribute inquiry-based learning handouts that provide guidelines for formulating questions. In small groups or individually, have students generate a list of questions they have about the events leading up to and during the Battle of Lexington and Concord.
Research and Inquiry
Provide access to primary and secondary sources related to Lexington and Concord. Instruct students to choose one or more inquiry questions from their list and conduct research to find answers. Circulate the classroom to support students in their research, answer questions, and facilitate discussions.
Group Sharing and Reflection
Have students gather in small groups to discuss their research findings and the answers they have uncovered to their inquiry questions. Each group should appoint a spokesperson to share their key findings with the entire class. Lead a class discussion where students reflect on the inquiry-based learning process, discussing the challenges they faced and the insights they gained. Conclude the lesson by emphasizing the value of inquiry-based learning in gaining a deeper understanding of historical events and encouraging ongoing curiosity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Advantages and Disadvantages of British and American Forces
How can storyboards be used to visually depict the advantages and disadvantages of British forces during the American Revolutionary War?
Storyboards can be powerful visual tools to illustrate the advantages and disadvantages of British forces during the American Revolutionary War. To depict their advantages, a storyboard may feature scenes showcasing the British Army's well-disciplined troops in their distinctive red coats and their access to resources and professional training. Conversely, the disadvantages can be visually represented through scenes that highlight challenges like the British supply lines stretched across the Atlantic Ocean, unfamiliarity with American terrain, and the impact of guerrilla warfare tactics employed by the American Patriots. Visual elements, such as maps, arrows, and captions, can help convey key points and facilitate a clear understanding of the advantages and disadvantages British forces faced in the Revolutionary War.
Were there instances where British forces leveraged their advantages effectively, despite facing disadvantages in certain aspects?
Yes, there were instances where British forces effectively leveraged their advantages, even when facing disadvantages in certain aspects during the American Revolutionary War. One notable example is the British success in capturing major American cities, such as New York and Philadelphia, by effectively using their superior naval power and the mobility it afforded. Additionally, British forces were often successful in conventional open-field battles where their discipline and training could shine. However, these victories didn't always translate into ultimate success, as the British faced challenges in holding captured territories due to the vastness of the American countryside, the resilience of American militias, and the difficulty of maintaining long supply lines. Therefore, while they had tactical successes, the British faced strategic challenges that impacted the overall course of the war.
How did the American forces leverage their advantages and mitigate their disadvantages to secure victory in the Revolutionary War?
The American forces leveraged their advantages and mitigated their disadvantages through a combination of strategic approaches. They capitalized on their knowledge of the local terrain by employing guerrilla warfare tactics, ambushing British forces, and engaging in hit-and-run skirmishes. The American Patriots' unwavering commitment to the cause of independence boosted their morale and determination. Leadership from figures like George Washington played a crucial role in organizing and professionalizing the Continental Army over time. Additionally, foreign support, particularly from France, provided much-needed resources, naval power, and military assistance. While they faced disadvantages in terms of discipline and resources, the Americans compensated through resilience, adaptability, and a clear strategic focus on defending their homeland. Ultimately, their ability to maintain the support of their population and allies, combined with effective military strategies, contributed to their victory in the Revolutionary War.
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American Revolution
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