Standard: 11-12.RI.9 – Analyze seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth-century foundational U.S. documents of historical and literary significance (including The Declaration of Independence, the Preamble to the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address) for their themes, purposes, and rhetorical features.
Grade level: Grade 11-12
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Reading: Informational Text
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on analyzing foundational U.S. documents for their themes, purposes, and rhetorical features. It is essential because it helps students understand the historical and literary significance of these documents, and how they have shaped the nation’s identity and values. Students should be familiar with key historical events and figures from the seventeenth to nineteenth centuries and have a basic understanding of rhetorical devices and persuasive techniques.
After mastering this standard, students will be able to critically analyze complex texts and understand their significance, preparing them for higher-level academic work and informed citizenship.
Common Misconception 1
Some students may believe that these documents are only relevant to their historical context. This is incorrect because the principles and themes in these documents continue to influence modern society and governance.
Intervention 1
To address this misconception, teachers can use contemporary examples and current events to demonstrate the ongoing relevance of these foundational documents.
Common Misconception 2
Another common misconception is that the rhetorical features of these documents are too complex to understand. This is incorrect because, with proper guidance, students can learn to break down and analyze these features effectively.
Intervention 2
Teachers can simplify the rhetorical features into more manageable components and use relatable, modern examples to help students grasp these concepts.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have a basic understanding of U.S. history, including key events and figures from the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries, as well as familiarity with basic rhetorical devices and techniques.
Subsequent Knowledge
Students will develop advanced analytical skills that will enable them to critically evaluate complex texts, preparing them for college-level coursework and informed citizenship.
Instructional Activities
- Group discussions on the themes of The Declaration of Independence.
- Essay writing comparing the rhetorical features of the Bill of Rights and Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address.
- Presentations on the modern significance of the Preamble to the Constitution.
