SSCG 2 b Evaluate the Declaration of Independence

SSCG 2. b Evaluate the Declaration of Independence as a persuasive argument EQ’s • What does it mean to persuade someone? • What is a persuasive argument

What is a persuasive/argument essay? • In persuasive writing, a writer takes a position FOR or AGAINST an issue and writes to convince the reader to believe or do something • Persuasive writing, also known as the argument essay, attempts to persuade a reader to adopt a certain point of view or to take a particular action. • The argument must always use sound • reasoning and solid evidence by stating facts, giving logical reasons, and using examples.

WHY DID WE BECOME INDEPENDENT FROM BRITAIN? • King George was raising taxes in the colonies • Colonies had no say or “representative” to stand up for themselves in England • Therefore, many people in the colonies got ANNOYED

SO HOW DO WE BREAK THE NEWS TO GOOD OLD GEORGE? ? ?

Declaration of Independence • July 4, 1776: 1400 word Statement adopted by Continental Congress • Announced the independence of the 13 American colonies

There were four main purposes of the Declaration of Independence: • Getting reluctant colonists to realize that loyalty to Britain was a lost cause • Explaining the Congress' position on the purpose of human government • Listing the colonists' grievances against King George III to show the legitimacy of their actions to others (prove to world they are justified in their actions) • To encourage foreign nations to help them

Parts/Components • Introduction-explains why Declaration of Independence is needed • List of Grievances-wrongs/injustices against the King of Great Britain (George III) – Over 25 abuses listed over 10 yr period – Largest section of D. O. I. • Conclusion-basically says the King is a tyrant and declaring the colonies should be free and independent states.