Did Pocahontas Save John Smith? An Investigation and Essay Activity - including text
- Bulk Pricing:
- Buy in bulk and save
- Contributor:
- Cliff Baker - Ye Olde History Emporium
- Grade Level:
- 7-12
- Product Type:
- Critical Thinking, Investigation and Essay
- File Type:
- Doc
- Pages:
- 14
- Answer Key:
- Essay Example Included
Description
It’s a story familiar to every American child – that John Smith, captured by Powhatan Indians, was about to have his head smashed in when suddenly the Chief’s daughter, Pocahontas, laid her head on his and begged her father not to kill Smith, thereby saving his life. But is it true?
The answer to that is simple: nobody really knows. In this activity, students will examine both sides of the question, analyze the arguments made for and against the veracity of Smith's story, and decide for themselves whether or not Smith was telling the truth when he told this tale. They will then use what they have learned to write a persuasive essay arguing whichever side they choose – as long as they back their argument up with evidence.
Materials include:
* four pages of informative text, including the two opposing arguments;
* an inquiry based study guide for students to record their analysis of the two arguments;
* essay instructions;
* an essay outline for students to use to organize their essay;
* teacher’s guide which includes sample study guide and outline responses;
* a PowerPoint with sample essay responses.
Materials are provided in one zip file.
Created by Cliff Baker - Visit Ye Olde History Emporium
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