Robert Kennedy's United States History Class
Journalism During the American Revolution
After Watching the Videos Below and referring to the Sam Adams and Declaration of Independence lectures, play the role of a journalist whose task is to write a story reporting on the development the Continental Congresses between 1774-1776. You may either choose playing the role of journalist from:
- London (main audience are bankers, merchants, and parliament members)
- Boston ( main audience are bankers, dock workers, ship-rights, and members of the Son's of Liberty_
- Virginia ( main audience are plantation owners)
- New York City ( main audience are African American Freedman with various positions including mechanics, dock workers, carpenters, blacksmiths)
Whichever role you choose, keep in mind the perspective. If you are from London, you will be writing for an audience from London who would generally be alarmed by the events and actions unfolding in the colonies (particularly Boston). If you choose the role of a journalist from Boston, you are writing to an audience that is generally hostile and alarmed by the actions of the British.
- Your news report should include the 5ws (who, what, when, where, and why [and sometimes how] click here for guidelines )
- Again, remember your perspective (role from either a journalist from Boston or London) should guide what you choose to emphasis, leave out, perhaps exaggerate)
- Your report should be at least 300-500 words.
- Feel free to use images as well.
- If you would like to post a video instead of writing, please post a news report following the assignment guidelines (post should be 5-7 minutes)
After posting, respond to a student's news report who chose a different role.
- Your response should offer counter information and explain perhaps why the "journalist" got it wrong (from your role's perspective).
- Here you can editorialize (offer an opinion), but never write in first or second person. ALWAYS WRITE IN THIRD PERSON)
- Your response should be at least 150 words.
John Adams at Lexington & Concord
King's Response to the Olive Branch
John Adams and Ben Franklin edit Jefferson's "Declaration of Independence"
The Passing of The Declaration of Independence
Olive Branch Petition
Debate for Independence
Washington Nominated as Commander and Chief