1. Difference Between a Declaration of Independence and a Constitution
We want Independence!
EXECUTIVE BRANCH
Governor
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
State Legislature
JUDICIAL BRANCH
Courts

2. Basic Facts Declaration of Independence Constitution
EXECUTIVE BRANCH
Governor
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
State Legislature
JUDICIAL BRANCH
Courts
We want Independence!
Declaration of Independence
Constitution
When are they usually written?
When the revolution is just beginning (the letter that gets you out of mom’s house)
Purpose
To explain your problems with the government (get out of the house)
How it is organized:
An introduction (called a preamble)
A list of grievances (complaints) about their current government
A statement of independence (pp. 214 and 708)
When are they usually written?
After the declaration of independence (the plan for after you get out)
Purpose
Creates a plan to solve the problems if/when we become independent (to create a plan after moving out)
How it is organized:
An introduction (preamble)
The articles (how the government is set up)
Amendments (all the laws for the new nation; including the Bill of Rights; which were the FIRST laws)

3. True or False?
The Constitution for a new nation is usually written before the declaration of independence.
 True
 False 

4. explains to the gov’t why they want to fight (problems)
Think About It
The biggest difference between a constitution and a declaration of independence is that a constitution ______________________ and a declaration of independence __________________________
________________.
creates a new gov’t (solutions)
explains to the gov’t why they want to fight (problems)

5. Declaration or Constitution?
You sent an army to Texas to fight with us just because we wanted to protest some taxes. 
 Declaration
 Constitution

6. Declaration or Constitution?
The new government of Texas will have three branches of government. (Executive, Legislative and Judicial)
 Declaration
 Constitution 

7. Declaration or Constitution?
The right of free speech is guaranteed.
 Declaration
 Constitution 

8. Declaration or Constitution?
Coahuila is the boss of Texas and the state capital is too far away. 
 Declaration
 Constitution

9. Declaration or Constitution?
Presidents of the Republic of Texas will serve three-year terms.
 Declaration
 Constitution 

10. Think About It
If you were going to declare independence from your parents, list one grievance that you would include in that document. (Be nice-ish)

11. Think About It
Take a look at some of the rights guaranteed by the Texas Constitution. (p. 216 or p. 710) Write one complete sentence describing what you would have done differently with one of the items outlined in the Constitution.