Comparing Revolutionary Voices

This document analysis worksheet features two primary source excerpts-the Olive Branch Petition and Common Sense-illustrating opposing colonial appeals to the British monarchy. Students read both texts and answer interpretive questions comparing tone, purpose, and audience. The activity develops analytical reading, historical comparison, and evidence-based reasoning while teaching students how revolutionary rhetoric evolved from reconciliation to independence.

Curriculum Matched Skills

Social Studies – U.S. History: Primary Source Analysis

English Language Arts – Comparing Authors’ Purpose and Tone

Social Studies – Revolutionary Ideals and Persuasion

English Language Arts – Critical Thinking and Textual Evidence

This worksheet is part of our American Revolution collection.