Words of Resolve

This worksheet helps students in Grades 6, 7, and 8 strengthen close-reading, rhetorical analysis, historical understanding, and evidence-based reasoning through an excerpt from President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “Day of Infamy” speech. By examining Roosevelt’s words following the attack on Pearl Harbor, learners analyze how language can shape public emotion, inspire unity, and influence national action during times of crisis.

Skills Reinforced

• Rhetorical Analysis (Grades 6-8) – Identify persuasive techniques such as repetition, emotional appeal, tone, and deliberate word choice
• Textual Evidence – Support answers with direct references from the speech excerpt
• Historical Understanding – Connect Roosevelt’s language to the context of World War II and national response
• Critical Thinking – Evaluate how speeches motivate citizens and build resolve

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource – Designed by educators to align with middle school ELA and social studies standards
• Primary Source Focus – Builds confidence working with historical speeches and authentic texts
• Guided Analysis Questions – Helps students break down complex rhetorical strategies
• Reflection Component – Encourages students to think about the power of language in leadership
• Flexible Use – Ideal for classwork, discussion, assessment, or homeschool instruction

This Words of Resolve worksheet helps students understand how powerful language can unite a nation and inspire action. By closely analyzing Roosevelt’s “Day of Infamy” speech, learners strengthen rhetorical analysis skills, historical comprehension, and appreciation for how words shape moments in history. It’s a no-prep, meaningful resource for classrooms and homeschool settings focused on persuasive language and civic understanding.

This worksheet is part of our Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Worksheets collection.