1. Road Map to Success: Articles of Confederation
And the Constitution
While the America Revolution continued to be fought across the 13 colonies, the Second Continental Congress worked to create a new government. According to John Locke’s philosophy of natural rights, the people have the right to overthrow the government if it fails to protect their natural rights of life, liberty and property – or, according to Thomas Jefferson – life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
With victory over the British came freedom and independence. The Americans’ fear of tyranny such as they felt they had suffered under King George III caused them to adopt a weak central government, the Articles of Confederation. Before long, however, many men came to recognize that the Articles were inadequate in regulating foreign and domestic trade, creating a stable and uniform currency, and negotiating foreign policy. A growing call for revision led to the Philadelphia Convention in 1787 where the framers took steps to create a more stable government and protect property rights.
“Should the states reject this excellent Constitution …the next will be drawn in blood.” George Washington, 1787
Over the next few weeks, you will master the following learning standards:
USI. 6 Explain the reasons for the adoption of the Articles of Confederation in 1781, including why its drafters created a weak central government; analyze the shortcomings of the national government under the Articles; and describe the crucial events leading to the Constitutional Convention;
USI.7 Explain the roles of various founders at the Constitutional Convention. Describe the major debates that occurred at the Convention and the “Great Compromise” that was reached.

2. Depth of Understanding (1-4) How do I get there?
Skill
Classroom Activities
Depth of Understanding (1-4)
How do I get there?
Explain why our founding fathers created and adopted a weak central government
Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the national government under the Articles
Describe the crucial events leading to the Constitutional Convention
SELF ASSESSMENT
HOW ARE YOU DOING SO FAR???
Explain the roles of various founders at the Constitutional Convention
Describe the major debates that occurred at the Convention
Describe the “Great Compromise” that was reached at the Convention