Emancipation Proclamation - Text vs. Rationale

In this activity, students will analyze and synthesize excerpts from the Emancipation Proclamation using a three columned T-Chart. To analyze the document as a whole, students will provide an excerpt, or direct quote in one column, what they believe the excerpt may mean in the second column, and a modern day interpretation of the excerpt in the last column. The organization of the chart will allow students to connect not only the meaning of the document, but also their own interpretation of the excerpt. This is critical in analyzing and synthesizing primary texts, and allows you to see how well students are comprehending the document.

Extended Activity

Have students write their own version of the Emancipation Proclamation from this activity, in their own words. Have them reiterate the rationale and meaning, but in contemporary language. This will allow students to connect and associate major concepts and themes within the document to their own learning styles.