Getting to Know Thomas Jefferson – Meet Thomas Jefferson – One of America’s Founding Fathers – His role in history – He helped create the USA – Why he’s important – Wrote the Declaration of Independence – Today’s lesson overview | This slide introduces Thomas Jefferson, one of the key figures in American history. As a Founding Father, Jefferson played a pivotal role in the establishment of the United States. He is best known for writing the Declaration of Independence, which declared the colonies’ freedom from British rule. Today’s lesson will cover his life, his contributions to the formation of the nation, and his lasting impact on American society. Encourage the students to think about what it means to be a leader and a writer, and how Jefferson’s work still affects our lives today.

Early Life of Thomas Jefferson – Born in Virginia, 1743 – Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743, in Shadwell, Virginia. – Avid reader and learner – He spent much of his childhood reading books, which sparked his love for learning. – Studied at William & Mary – Jefferson went to college in Williamsburg, Virginia, when he was 16 years old. – Foundation for future leadership | Introduce Thomas Jefferson by mentioning his birthplace and date to give students a sense of his historical context. Emphasize his passion for reading and learning, which played a significant role in his development. Explain that the College of William & Mary was a prestigious school where Jefferson received higher education. Highlight that his early life experiences, especially his education, laid the groundwork for his future contributions as a leader. Encourage students to think about how their own interests and education might shape their future, just like Jefferson’s did.

Thomas Jefferson and American Independence – Wrote the Declaration of Independence – He penned the famous document in 1776. – Declaration: A historic document – It’s a statement that announced America’s freedom. – Declaration’s purpose in history – It marked the birth of the United States. – Jefferson’s impact on America | This slide introduces Thomas Jefferson’s pivotal role in American history as the primary author of the Declaration of Independence. The Declaration is a powerful document that proclaimed the thirteen colonies’ freedom from British rule and outlined the principles of individual liberty and government by the people. It’s important to convey the significance of this document in shaping the nation’s values and its lasting impact on American society. Jefferson’s contributions to the founding of the United States are a testament to his influence as a historical figure. Encourage students to think about what independence means and how Jefferson’s words still resonate today.

Thomas Jefferson as President – 3rd President of the USA – Louisiana Purchase – Doubled the size of the US – Believed in small government – Wanted less control by the federal government – Advocated for states’ rights – Thought states should make their own laws | Thomas Jefferson, as the third President of the United States, made significant contributions to the country’s expansion and its foundational principles. One of his notable achievements was the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which greatly expanded the territory of the United States. Jefferson was a proponent of small government, believing that a government with limited powers was best for the freedom of the people. He also believed strongly in the rights of states to govern themselves without too much interference from the federal government. These beliefs shaped his presidency and had a lasting impact on the development of the United States. When discussing Jefferson’s presidency with third graders, emphasize his role in expanding the country and his vision of government, which can be related to the concept of having more freedom and responsibility in their own choices.

Monticello: Jefferson’s Home – Jefferson designed Monticello – Monticello was his beautiful house and farm – Located in Charlottesville, VA – That’s where he lived in Virginia – Monticello is a museum today – People visit to learn about Jefferson – It’s a World Heritage Site – UNESCO recognizes it for its importance | Thomas Jefferson was not only a founding father of the United States but also a talented architect. He designed his own home, Monticello, which became a reflection of his innovative ideas. Located in Charlottesville, Virginia, Monticello is now a museum open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the life and legacy of Jefferson. It has been designated as a World Heritage Site, which means it’s recognized by UNESCO as having cultural significance to the entire world. When discussing Monticello, emphasize Jefferson’s creativity and the home’s historical importance. Encourage students to think about why preserving historical places is valuable.

Thomas Jefferson’s Legacy – Jefferson shaped the U.S. – Wrote the Declaration of Independence, which started the USA. – His face on Mount Rushmore – Mount Rushmore is a monument with his face to honor him. – Jefferson on the nickel – The nickel is a coin that shows his face to remember him. – His laws and government role – Created important laws and the Louisiana Purchase. | Thomas Jefferson was a founding father who played a pivotal role in the creation of the United States. He authored the Declaration of Independence, which is a significant document in American history. Jefferson’s contributions are commemorated by his likeness being carved into Mount Rushmore, a symbol of American leadership and legacy. His face is also on the nickel, a common U.S. coin, which helps people remember his impact every day. In government, Jefferson’s work as a lawmaker and his actions, such as the Louisiana Purchase, greatly influenced the country’s development. When discussing Jefferson’s legacy, encourage students to think about how his contributions continue to affect our lives today.

Class Activity: Writing Our Declaration – Imagine being a leader – Write your own Declaration – Think about changes you want in school or community – Work together in groups – Present your declarations – Share your group’s ideas with the class | In this activity, students will engage in a group exercise to understand the significance of the Declaration of Independence by creating their own. Encourage them to think like leaders and identify issues that are important to them, whether in school or their community. Guide them to express their thoughts and solutions in a declaration format. Provide them with sentence starters to help them begin their declaration. For example, ‘We believe that…’, ‘We want to change…’, etc. Split the class into small groups and give them time to collaborate and write their declarations. Afterward, have each group present their declaration to the class. This will help students practice public speaking and give them a sense of empowerment. Possible activities could include writing a declaration for more playground time, healthier lunches, or less homework.