Primary-Source Spotlight: Acting Out the Missouri Compromise in Middle-School History

Henry Clay’s 1820 deal isn’t just a paragraph in a textbook. When students perform the actual legislative text, they hear every hesitation, threat, and plea for balance. This Readers Theater script turns the Missouri Compromise into front-row drama.

Set-Up for a 50-Minute “U.S. History 8” Block

1. Hook (5): Display Jefferson’s “firebell in the night” quote—ask students to predict the metaphor.
2. Cold Read (25): 15-role script covers Tallmadge Amendment, Cobb’s counter, and Clay’s compromise.
3. Evidence Share (15): Readers cite lines that foreshadow conflict; class tags causes of sectionalism.
4. Reflection (5): Quick-write—“Could any compromise have lasted?”

Download the Materials

• FREE Missouri Compromise Script (TPT)
• Complete Westward Expansion Bundle (10 scripts)

Extension Ideas (Optional teacher-created add-ons)

Facilitate a mock Senate debate or assign a DBQ using the compromise text—great for document-analysis practice.