Directions for Written Response #4

1. Read the excerpts (1-6) from Common Sense and mark the text; high light, make margin
notes, and circle words you are unfamiliar with. Discuss with a partner the following
questions and answer them in your notebook.
In excerpt #1 why does Paine claim that England is not the mother country?
In excerpt #2 why does Paine claim that it doesnt matter how many people in
America have English descent?
In excerpt #3 why does Paine claim that our connection with Britain is actually
hurting us?
In excerpt #4 how does Paine make the argument that our connection to Britain
goes against nature?
In excerpt #5 how does Paine use logic to argue that the king should not be
ruling us?
In excerpt #6 why does Paine claim that we would be better off without Britain?
What do you think is Paines best argument and why?
2. Read the passages from Common Sense regarding why we should declare our
independence from Britain and mark the text. Discuss with a partner the following
questions and answer them in your notebook.
(Reason #1) Why does Paine claim that no third country will mediate a peace
between America and Britain as long as America remains part of Britain?
(Reason #2) Why wont any third country help us defeat Britain unless we
declare our independence?
(Reason #4) Why is it more beneficial to declare our independence to the world
and explain our peaceful intentions with Europe than to continue sending
petitions to England?
What do you think was Paines best argument and Why?
3. Read the loyalist response to Common Sense and mark the text. Discuss with a partner
the following questions and answer them in your notebook.
Why does the author claim the war that will follow a declaration of
independence will be marked with devastation and ruin?
What would Americans lose by declaring independence?
Why does the author claim that no other country will help us?
What is the authors best argument and why?
4. Read the arguments from a loyalist and mark the text. Discuss with a partner the
following questions and answer them in your notebook.
Why does the author of this letter oppose declaring independence?
Do you agree with the authors argument? Why or why not?