Social Studies - 6th Grade
Standard 3 Objective 1
1 class periods of 45 minutes each
The French Revolution was instigated by the unfairness of the tax system in France, the example of the American Revolution, and the bankruptcy of the French monarchy.
Causes of the French Revolution
Mr. Donn's resources for the French Revolution
People and Events of the French Revolution
Students should be familiar with the concept of a revolution involving people who are dissatisfied and be ready to recognize causes and effects.
As a pre-assessment, ask students (individually or as a group) to come up with a definition or word map for the word "revolution." You might discuss revolutions the students may have already learned about, such the American Revolutionary war, the Industrial Revolution, the Scientific Revolution, and/or the Reformation.
Enduring Understanding
The governed have the right to choose their leaders.
Essential Question
Who should govern?
Invitation to learn: Have a treat for part of the class and only offer it to the students who you've determined are part of the First or Second Estate. Talk about how it feels when there is inequality.
For a more specific version of this activity (and a pre-made unit on the French Revolution), visit "Is Freedom Really Free?" Click on Sixth Grade (on the left), then scroll down to History and find the French Revolution.
Instruction:
Use books, lecture, websites, etc. for students to discover the six main causes of the French Revolution and have students write about the effects.
The six main causes are:
Encourage students to identify important people in their effect paragraph.
A paragraph on the effects might include the following ideas:
As a option, you could use the 3-cause graphic organizer , with the causes: the unfair tax system, the example of the American Revolution, and the bankrupt monarchy.
Students could create an inspiration, graphical map, or timeline to explain the French Revolution.
Assess student understanding from their graphic organizer, or you could create a game or quiz.
You could also have students answer questions (orally or in writing) such as: