Equality in the Revolution

This historical literacy worksheet supports students in Grades 5, 6, and 7 as they explore how ideas about equality were expressed and challenged during the American Revolution. By closely reading excerpts from the Declaration of Independence and Abigail Adams’s letter to John Adams, learners compare ideals, audience, and perspective while developing analytical reading, historical empathy, and critical thinking skills.

Instructional Objectives

• Revolutionary Ideals and Equality (Grades 5-7) – Examines how freedom and equality were defined and debated during the Revolutionary era.
• Text Comparison and Analysis – Guides students in comparing two primary sources with different purposes, audiences, and viewpoints.
• Historical Perspective and Gender Roles – Highlights Abigail Adams’s perspective to deepen understanding of women’s roles and voices in history.
• Evidence-Based Written Response – Encourages students to support interpretations using specific details from both texts.

Teaching Advantages

• Teacher-Created Resource – Designed by educators to align with upper-elementary and middle school ELA and social studies standards.
• Primary Source Focus – Uses authentic historical documents to build close reading and interpretation skills.
• Discussion-Ready Content – Supports thoughtful classroom conversation about equality, rights, and changing ideals.
• Flexible Implementation – Suitable for guided instruction, independent analysis, small groups, or assessment.

This printable worksheet helps students understand that revolutionary ideals were powerful but also incomplete and evolving. By comparing foundational texts with differing perspectives, learners strengthen critical thinking, historical analysis, and written reasoning skills. Whether used in a classroom or homeschool setting, this activity provides meaningful insight into equality, freedom, and the complexities of the American Revolution.

This worksheet is part of our American Revolution collection.