Common Sense | Declaration of Independence | U.S. History Readers Theater Script

This U.S. History Differentiated Readers Theater script is based on the story of Common Sense and the Declaration of Independence (1776). It tells the story of Thomas Paine who wrote a pamphlet called "Common Sense." His writing helped people understand why the colonies should be free from British rule. The pamphlet spread quickly, and many people began to support independence. Inspired by these ideas, leaders like Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. On July 4, 1776, the delegates signed the Declaration, and it was read aloud to the people. Everyone celebrated, knowing they were starting a new nation. This was a big step toward freedom and unity.

This script should take about ~20 minutes to read depending on your classroom's level. An extra ~25 minutes for prep, discussion, vocabulary or short answer comprehension questions should also be planned.

This product includes a zip file consisting of:

• Grades 3~5 Version (~18 Characters, 900 words, 9 pages)
• Grades 6~8 Version (~22 Characters, 1300 words, 10 pages)
• Student & Teacher Reader's Theater Tips & Notes
• 10 Comprehension Short Answer and 10 Vocabulary Words
• Themes & Discussion Question Prompts
• Note: All files are in editable DOCX format
• Character Note: Some characters only have 1 or 2 lines, if necessary one student can read multiple lines. Likewise some of the main characters can be read by multiple students.

This script is part of a Revolutionary War Bundle!

CLICK HERE to check all 15 scripts below and save 50%

01 The Boston Tea Party & Intolerable Acts (1773) [FREE DOWNLOAD]

02 The First Continental Congress (1774)

03 Patrick Henry at the Virginia Convention (1775)

04 The Midnight Ride & the Shot Heard Round the World (1775)

05 The Green Mountain Boys & Battle of Bunker Hill (1775)

06 The Second Continental Congress (1775)

07 Common Sense & Declaration of Independence (1776)

08 Crossing the Delaware & Victory at Trenton (1776)

09 Valley Forge & The American Crisis (1777-1778)

10 Foreign Allies: Lafayette and France (1777-1778)

11 Sybil Ludington and Molly Pitcher (1777)

12 Alexander Hamilton and His Duel (1780s-1804)

13 Yorktown and the Treaty of Paris (1781 - 1783)

14 George Washington Stepping Down (1783)

15 Slavery and the American Revolution (1770s-1780s)