Synopsis
Betsy Ross---a bit prone to exaggeration---tells her grandkids how the colonies became a nation. It's a difficult time: taxes are high, Sam Adams hates tea, and Paul Revere keeps forgetting his horse. The colonies don't even like each other that much, and John Hancock is spending way too much time practicing his signature. From the French and Indian War to the election of George Washington as the first president, The American Revolution gives students the chance to sing their way through the most exciting period in our nation's formation.
Preview the script and songs!Key Concepts
While there's no way any short play can cover all the happenings of the American Revolution, this show contains lots of curriculum in the songs and dialogue; it covers the major events and issues during the 25-year period of 1763-1789. For even more detail on the constitution, see U.S. Constitution; for a higher-level overview of the whole period from 1600-1791, check out 13 Colonies.
The American Revolution reinforces students' familiarity with the following events and concepts:
- The French and Indian War
- England's relationship with the Americas and European nations
- England's Acts, duties, and levies on the Americas
- The Boston Tea Party
- Taxation without representation
- Paul Revere
- The Declaration of Independence
- The nature of warfare during the revolution
- The Treaty of Paris
- The Articles of Confederation
- State representation in Congress
- The creation of the Constitution
- The electoral college
- George Washington elected as the first president
- See the "Read the Script" tab (on this page to the right) for the full character list
The American Revolution is a great complement to your curriculum resources in social studies. And, like all of our plays, this show can be used to improve reading, vocabulary, reading comprehension, performance and music skills, class camaraderie and teamwork, and numerous social skills (read about it!) -- all while enabling students to be part of a truly fun and creative experience they will never forget!
Aligned with national standards! View the standards and vocabulary.Publication Info
Author: Ron Fink (Composer) and John Heath (Book and Lyrics)
ISBN:
978-1-886588-28-8
© 2003
Bad Wolf Press, LLC
3rd grade learners (verified owner) –
This product was more than I could even imagine- learning through song and kid friendly dialogue was the empitomy of authentic learning. I especially loved the ability for large to small parts choices.
Heights (verified owner) –
This is the third Bad Wolf production I've helped put on as a drama teacher. These plays are great for all students to be able to participate at their personal comfort levels. I love that it also crosses over with common core curriculum.
Jane Trapp (verified owner) –
We did the American Revolution program this spring and it was perfect. It aligned beautifully with our Social Studies curriculum. I teach 5th grade gifted students so they caught much of the humor that might be over the heads of the kids but certainly appreciated by the parents. Loved it!
Hobart family ministry (Building Young Leaders homeschool) (verified owner) –
I am beyond thrilled with this product! I homeschool 4 students from age 7-12 and the songs and content allowed me to "rewrite " or adapt in such a way we were actually able to perform a musical for a audience! I wish I could share the video as it is the best thing I thing I have done with children. It was very easy to adapt and the songs were easy and fun but not babyish. It covered every expectation I had. I am already looking for next year hoping to find a title just as great as the revolutionary war. Just really great!