The Declaration of Independence

by Laura K. Murray

Overview

Written by Founding Father Thomas Jefferson addressed to King George III of England, the Declaration of Independence was a key document in shaping the course of American history and severing the colonies' ties to England. Young readers will learn about the events that led to the writing and creation of the Declaration of Independence, the effect it had on the colonists' lives, and why it is one of America's most significant symbols of liberty. Leveled, accessible text and primary-source images provide a close look at this key document and its impact on our nation.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781977110114
Publisher:	Capstone
Publication date:	08/01/2019
Series:	Shaping the United States of America
Pages:	24
Product dimensions:	8.00(w) x 8.00(h) x (d)
Lexile:	720L (what's this?)
Age Range:	6 - 9 Years

About the Author

Laura K. Murray is the Minnesota-based author of more than 80 published or forthcoming books for young readers. Her creative writing and poetry have been featured in River Valley Woman, The Talking Stick, Mankato Poetry Walk & Ride, and elsewhere. She loves learning from her readers and helping them find their reading superpowers! Visit her at LauraKMurray.com.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 A Free Nation 4

Chapter 2 Fighting for Independence 6

Chapter 3 Powerful Words 10

Chapter 4 A Lasting Document 16

Glossary 22

Read More 23

Internet Sites 23

Critical Thinking Questions 24

Index 24

Interviews

Early introduction to primary source documents; Curriculum aligned to C3 standards for history; At-level, accessible text with ATOS under 3.6; Strong picture-text match to aid comprehension; Text features aid and enhance main text.

Editorial Reviews

11/01/2019

Gr 1–3—Using age-appropriate explanations, foundational documents of the United States are explored through events that led to their creation. The inclusion of the Magna Carta and the Mayflower Compact show how both were vital in creating and shaping the Constitution. The volume on the Star-Spangled Banner gives historical context for the important poem that went on to become the country's national anthem. Colorful illustrations (mostly paintings from or of the era), reproductions of historical documents, and contemporary photographs are used effectively. A noteworthy feature is that bolded vocabulary words are not just defined in the glossary but also in sidebars near where they first appear in the text. Despite their brevity, all volumes clearly illustrate why the documents were necessary at the time, and how their importance continues. VERDICT A good choice for all elementary libraries.

School Library Journal