1. The Declaration of Independence
Thomas Jefferson

2. Big Question: When is Rebellion justified?
With your partner discuss situations in which an individual or a group rebelled against a perceived injustice?

3. About the Author He was one of the most accomplished founding fathers
As president he essentially doubled the size of the country.
He developed the policy of separation of church and state
He favored the rights of the states over the federal government

4. Words to Know
Argument: expresses and opinion on an issue and supports it with reason and evidence
Claim: the writers position on a subject or argument
Support: evidence to prove the claim
Counterargument: the opposing views
Purpose: the reason for writing something
Audience: who the work is being presented to

5. Four Main Points of the Declaration of Independence.
Preamble, a foreword, that announces the reason for the document.
A Declaration of people’s natural rights and relationship to government.
A long List of complaints against George III, the British king.
A Conclusion that formally states America’s independence.