Speech Rewrite

Students read an excerpt from a 1773 speech by Samuel Adams and then rewrite it in modern language while preserving the original meaning and tone. This activity reinforces historical understanding by requiring students to translate older formal language into contemporary phrasing without changing the intent. After rewriting, students complete a reflection explaining why meaning must be preserved when adapting historical speeches. The worksheet builds skills in paraphrasing, interpretation, and historical literacy while encouraging thoughtful consideration of how messages change across time.

Curriculum Matched Skills

English Language Arts – Paraphrasing and Modernizing Text

Social Studies – Understanding Revolutionary Leaders and Ideas

English Language Arts – Interpretation of Historical Language

Critical Thinking – Evaluating Meaning Across Contexts

This worksheet is part of our The Boston Tea Party Worksheets collection.