Common Sense - npsd.k12.nj.us



Common Sense

-Thomas Paine

Written: 1775–1776, Philadelphia

First Published: January 10, 1776

Task:

1. Actively Read

a. Highlight famous quotes (see below) and write a brief explanation for each one (put into your words what Paine meant)

b. Insert a “(” by any passage where Paine appeals to the reader’s heart

c. Insert a “[pic]” by any passage where Paine appeals to the reader’s logic

d. Insert a “(” by words that you consider “revolutionary”

2. Answer the questions below with a one or two sentences (write the page number where you found your answer)

3. Take the Common Sense quiz

Quotes:

Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one…

To say, they will never attempt it again is idle and visionary, we thought so at the repeal of the stamp-act, yet a year or two undeceived us…

Why is it that we hesitate? From Britain we can expect nothing but ruin. If she is admitted to the government of America again, this continent will not be worth living in.

Until an independence is declared the continent will feel itself like a man who continues putting off some unpleasant business from day to day, yet knows it must be done, hates to set about it, wishes it over, and is continually haunted with the thoughts of its necessity.

Study Questions:

A. What is the motivation of the writer of this document?

B. Were there any events that directly preceded the creation of this document that you believe were influential?

C. Are there any significant attitudes about rights of various groups expressed? Explain.

D. What was the original intended audience of this document, how did the attended audience affect the document’s creation?

E. Is there a specific call to action in the document? Explain.

F. Is there a claim of authority or credibility made by the author of the document?

G. Does Paine present a compelling argument for an American declaration of independence?

H. How do you think a loyalist would react to Paine's arguments?

Quiz:

1. What does Paine think of government?

a. It should make sure everyone has enough to survive

b. It is a reflection of the glories of man

c. It is a necessary evil

d. It should not exist

2. Where was Paine originally from?

a. Philadelphia

b. England

c. Boston

d. New York

3. How does Paine describe the natural state of man?

a. Some people were born to be rulers and some subjects

b. Some people were born to be slaves and some masters

c. All people are born equal

d. Man is naturally evil

4. Even if a king gains legitimate power, why does Paine think that king's children should not automatically attain the same position?

a. They may be stupid

b. They have not been chosen by the people

c. They will likely grow up unfit to rule

d. All of the above

5. What is the term Paine uses for the idea that America should resolve its differences with Britain and return to her empire?

a. Reconciliation

b. Reconstruction

c. Reparations

d. Restoration

6. [pic][pic]Which of the following reasons does Paine NOT cite when he argues that the colonies must free themselves from British rule?

a. Reconciliation would create an unstable political situation that cannot be left to posterity

b. Reconciliation would result in a renewed war with French-influenced, American- Indian tribes

c. The British will impose new, unjust taxes

d. America cannot be effectively governed from afar[pic][pic]

7. What does Paine suggest that America build?

a. Universities

b. Libraries

c. Nuclear warheads

d. A navy[pic][pic]

8. Why does Paine think America's small size is an advantage in the struggle for independence?

a. Other countries will want to help a small nation defeat a larger one

b. It will be harder for British attacks to be on target

c. Because large countries cannot fight for as long

d. The colonies are more unified

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