Comparing Revolutionary Voices

This document analysis worksheet supports students in Grades 5, 6, and 7 as they examine two influential Revolutionary-era texts-the Olive Branch Petition and Common Sense-to understand how colonial arguments and rhetoric changed over time. Through close reading, comparison, and evidence-based responses, learners analyze tone, purpose, audience, and persuasive strategies while strengthening historical thinking and critical literacy skills.

Academic Focus

• Primary Source Analysis (Grades 5-7) – Guides students in reading and interpreting authentic historical documents from the Revolutionary era.
• Comparing Tone and Purpose – Helps learners distinguish between appeals for reconciliation and arguments for independence.
• Revolutionary Persuasion – Explores how language and rhetoric were used to influence public opinion and political action.
• Evidence-Based Reasoning – Requires students to support interpretations with specific details from each text.

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource – Designed by educators to align with upper-elementary and middle school ELA and social studies standards.
• Structured Comparison Questions – Supports students in organizing similarities and differences clearly and logically.
• Cross-Curricular Integration – Blends U.S. history content with reading comprehension and analytical writing skills.
• Flexible Use – Suitable for guided instruction, independent work, small groups, or assessment.

This printable worksheet helps students see how revolutionary ideas developed through changing arguments, tone, and audience. By comparing two key primary sources, learners deepen their understanding of historical context, persuasive writing, and the path toward independence. Whether used in a classroom or homeschool setting, this activity offers meaningful practice in analytical reading, historical comparison, and thoughtful use of textual evidence.

This worksheet is part of our American Revolution collection.