Discovering the American Revolution
Discovering the American Revolution is a hands-on history course for 4th–6th graders, exploring the causes, events, and key figures of the Revolution. Through interactive activities and creative projects, students engage with history and
What's included
8 live meetings
8 hrs 40 mins in-class hoursMastery Evaluation
1-2 hours per week. Homework: Weekly optional tasks, such as reviewing a timeline, annotating a historical document, or completing a short reading about a key event or figure. Projects: Week 2: Create a digital poster about colonial life. Week 4: Design trading cards featuring Revolutionary figures. Week 7: Write a fictional diary entry from the perspective of a historical character. Assignments: Week 3: Annotate a primary source, such as a protest pamphlet or excerpt from the Stamp Act. Week 5: Label a battle map and write a short description of its importance. Week 8: Contribute to a collaborative digital mural showcasing the Revolution’s legacy. All tasks and projects will be shared during class discussions or submitted via the online platform.Class Experience
US Grade 4 - 6
In "Discovering the American Revolution," students will embark on an exciting journey through one of the most pivotal events in history. This class is designed for 4th–6th graders who are curious about the causes, key figures, battles, and legacy of the American Revolution. Through interactive lessons, creative activities, and discussions, students will deepen their understanding of how this historical period shaped the United States. Class Experience: What will be taught? Students will learn: The timeline and geography of the American Revolution. -Daily life in the colonies and how colonists lived and worked. -Key causes of the Revolution, including unfair taxation and growing tensions with Britain. -Major figures like George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and King George III. -Important battles and turning points, including Lexington and Concord, Saratoga, and Yorktown. The ideas and purpose behind the Declaration of Independence. The impact of the Revolution on diverse groups of people, including women, enslaved individuals, and Native Americans. The Revolution’s lasting legacy on the United States and the world. What topics will you cover? Each week, we’ll cover a specific topic, ranging from the events leading up to the Revolution to life in the colonies, battles, and the war’s outcomes. Activities and discussions will connect these topics to the larger historical context. How is your class structured? Weekly Meetings: 8 weeks, 45–60 minutes per class. Each class will begin with a short introduction or review. Interactive lessons include a mix of direct instruction, collaborative activities, and discussion. Students will complete creative projects such as digital posters, trading cards, and diary entries, which they can share with the group. How will you teach? My teaching style is engaging and student-centered. I use slides, digital tools, primary source analysis, and role-playing activities to make history come alive. Each session includes opportunities for students to interact, share ideas, and ask questions. What’s your teaching style? I balance structure with creativity to ensure every student feels comfortable and inspired to learn. History isn’t just about memorizing dates—it’s about discovering the stories and ideas that shaped the world. How much will learners get to interact with you? Learners will interact with me regularly during: Discussions: Students are encouraged to share thoughts and ask questions. Interactive Activities: I’ll provide guidance and feedback throughout projects and activities. Small Group Breakouts: In smaller classes, we’ll focus on group collaboration and direct interaction. This class is designed to be flexible for different group sizes and online settings. Students will leave each session with a deeper appreciation of history and the tools to think critically about the past.
Learning Goals
Understand the Causes of the Revolution: Students will analyze key events and ideas, such as unfair taxation and colonial resistance, that led to the American Revolution.Identify Key Figures and Events: Students will explore the roles of influential individuals and significant battles that shaped the Revolution and its outcome.
Syllabus
Standards
Aligned with National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (NCSS)8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to the American Revolution
Topics: Timeline and geography of the American Revolution; "What is a revolution?"
Activities:
Interactive map work: Use an online map tool (e.g., Google Maps) to collaboratively label key locations. Adjust based on group size (individual or paired work for smaller classes).
Timeline creation: Students add events to a shared digital timeline (e.g., Padlet). Use screen sharing for small groups to brainstorm together. 65 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Life in the 13 Colonies
Topics: Daily life, jobs, and government in the 13 colonies; Comparison to modern life.
Activities:
Role-play breakout sessions: Students choose a colonial role and describe their lives in small breakout groups, then share key points with the class.
Digital posters: Create a colonial job poster using Google Slides, shared via screen share for peer feedback. 65 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Causes of the Revolution
Topics: The French and Indian War, Stamp Act, Boston Tea Party, and "No taxation without representation."
Activities:
Virtual tax simulation: Distribute virtual "taxes" using an online poll or tokens, then discuss feelings and reactions.
Primary source analysis: Annotate excerpts of protest pamphlets in Google Docs. Smaller groups allow for deeper discussion. 65 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Key Figures of the Revolution
Topics: George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, King George III, and others.
Activities:
Digital trading cards: Google Slides templates. Share cards in a virtual "gallery walk."
Mini-presentations: Students research and give short (2–3 minutes) presentations using slides or props, with time for questions from peers. 65 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
This class supports unique learning needs, including ADHD, Dyslexia, and ASD, with visual aids, hands-on activities, clear instructions, and flexible pacing
Parental Guidance
This course covers historical topics that may include discussions of war, battles, and the experiences of diverse groups during the American Revolution, such as women, enslaved individuals, and Native Americans. These topics will be addressed in an age-appropriate and sensitive manner, but parents should be aware that some learners may find certain aspects of the history upsetting.
If primary source documents are used, they may include language or perspectives reflective of the time period, which will be contextualized for students.
Tools Used:
Google Docs, Google Slides, or Jamboard for collaborative projects (no account required to access shared materials).
Parents are encouraged to review the course materials or reach out with questions or concerns about specific content or tools.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
Books:
If You Lived at the Time of the American Revolution by Kay Moore
The American Revolution for Kids: A History with 21 Activities by Janis Herbert
Primary Sources:
Excerpts from the Declaration of Independence.
Selections from colonial protest materials such as pamphlets or speeches (e.g., "Common Sense" by Thomas Paine).
Websites:
Library of Congress: https://www.loc.gov (Primary source materials related to the American Revolution).
National Archives: https://www.archives.gov (Historical documents, including the Declaration of Independence).
American Battlefield Trust: https://www.battlefields.org (Interactive maps and information about key battles).
Multimedia:
Selected clips from the PBS series Liberty! The American Revolution (educational content with an appropriate age rating).
Animated educational videos from YouTube or History.com (links provided during class).
All sources have been reviewed to ensure age-appropriate content and historical accuracy. Parents are welcome to preview materials upon request.
Joined April, 2024
Teacher expertise and credentials
I hold a master’s degree in history and have completed specialized training on the American Revolution with the Freedom Foundation, deepening my knowledge of this pivotal period in U.S. history. Additionally, I bring 7 years of teaching experience in elementary and middle school, where I have designed and implemented engaging lessons across a variety of subjects, including history.
My approach focuses on making history interactive and accessible for young learners, incorporating storytelling, hands-on activities, and thoughtful discussions to spark curiosity and build understanding. Families can be assured that my combination of academic expertise, training, and practical teaching experience will create a dynamic and enriching learning environment for students.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$15
weekly or $120 for 8 classes1x per week, 8 weeks
65 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-14
2-6 learners per class
