Prisoners of War: The Forgotten Faces of the American Revolution (Reading Comprehension & Analysis)

Dive deeper into the American Revolution! This engaging worksheet sheds light on the often-overlooked experiences of Prisoners of War (POWs) during the war. Students will grapple with the harsh realities of captivity, the challenges of prisoner exchange, and the enduring human cost of conflict. Through primary sources, critical thinking questions, and engaging activities, students gain a richer understanding of this pivotal period in U.S. history.

What's Included:

• Compelling Reading Passage: Students are transported back in time, encountering the firsthand accounts and struggles of POWs on both sides of the Revolution.
• Critical Thinking Activities: Thought-provoking questions guide analysis of POW experiences, factors affecting prisoner treatment, and the complexities of wartime exchanges.
• Primary Source Spotlight: A firsthand account offers valuable insights into the hardships endured by POWs.
• Assessment Activities: Multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer questions assess comprehension and critical thinking skills.
• Detailed Answer Key: Save valuable time with a clear and comprehensive answer key for all questions.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the experiences of POWs held by both the British and the Continental Army.
• Evaluate the challenges associated with prisoner exchange during the Revolution.
• Understand the human cost of war, extending beyond battlefield casualties.
• Analyze primary sources to gain insights into historical events and perspectives.
• Appreciate the complexities of war and the importance of humane treatment for POWs.

Common Core State Standards Alignment:

• RI.5.1: Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.
• RI.5.2: Determine the central ideas or author's purpose of a text and explain how it is supported by key details.
• RI.5.3: Explain the human experience in history, including the ethical dimensions of social conflicts and political decisions.
• SS.5.1: Explain the causes and consequences of the American Revolution.

This resource is perfect for:

• U.S. History Classes (Middle & High School)
• American Revolution Unit
• Encouraging Critical Thinking & Historical Empathy

Ready to unlock your students' critical thinking potential? Explore my store, More Lessons, Less Planning, for a treasure trove of reading comprehensions that tackle diverse themes and inspire insightful discussions. From the founding fathers to the complexities of war, there's something for every classroom!

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