What Your Child Is Learning in Unit 4 "The Struggle for Independence"

In this unit, your child will examine how a new country, the United States of America, emerged from disagreements with Britain to become an independent nation. He or she will learn how the British and the colonists disagreed over economic policies, and how this led the colonists to form a new government and fight a war for independence. Your child will also come to understand how the U.S. Constitution was created.

Activities You Can Do at Home to Support Your Child's Learning

Chapter 10 Crisis with Britain

• In school, your child will be introduced to the art and significance of political cartoons. For a week or two, collect political cartoons from the newspaper. The cartoons may satirize local or national issues and personalities. Discuss the focus of each cartoon with your child, and talk about the issue it addresses.

• Make a list of all the goods and services your local and federal tax dollars help provide. Discuss with your child how taxes affect the quality of life. What would your community be like without these goods and services? What would the quality of your life be like?

Chapter 11 War Breaks Out

• Several movies and television shows have been made about the Revolutionary War, including a television miniseries on the life of George Washington. Rent or borrow one of these and watch it with your child. Ask your child to tell how it is similar to and different from what he or she has learned about the war.

Chapter 12 Searching for Unity

• Part of this chapter discusses the ways in which the new U. S. citizens became uniquely American. Work with your child to make a list of holidays, celebrations, traditions, and ideals that are especially American. Discuss how these examples help to foster pride and unity.