By the 1770s, there were thirteen colonies along the coast of America. They were ruled by the King of England, far across the ocean.
The king made the colonists pay taxes — extra money — on things like tea, paper, and sugar. But the colonists had no say in the rules. They said it was not fair: "No taxation without representation!" That means, do not make us pay if we get no voice.
The colonists began to dream of independence — being free to rule themselves. This big fight for freedom is called the American Revolution. It changed the world, and this week you will learn how it happened!
1. How many colonies were there?
2. Who ruled the colonies?
3. Why did the colonists think the taxes were unfair?
4. What does independence mean?
By the end of this week, you will be able to:
1. Explain why the colonists were upset with the king.
2. Tell what happened at the Boston Tea Party.
3. Describe how the colonists fought for and won their freedom.
4. Explain what independence means in your own life.
Write what each word means in your own words.
Write T for true or F for false in each circle.
1. Have you ever had to follow a rule you thought was unfair? What did you do?
2. Why do you think people want a voice in the rules they follow?
1. There were colonies in America.
2. They were ruled by the of England.
3. The colonists had to pay on tea and paper.
4. The colonists had no in the rules.
5. They dreamed of — ruling themselves.
6. The fight for freedom is called the American .
Design a colonial flag or sign that tells the king the taxes are unfair. Use words and pictures!
| I learned... | Circle one |
|---|---|
| Who ruled the thirteen colonies | YES / NOT YET |
| Why the colonists were upset | YES / NOT YET |
| What independence means | YES / NOT YET |