The First Thanksgiving (Mourt's Relation by Edward Winslow) | Reader's Theater Script

This reader’s theater script for The First Thanksgiving is based on the primary source Mourt's Relation by Edward Winslow and others (1620-1).

This script should take about ~45 minutes to read depending on your classroom's level. Extra time for discussion, vocabulary or short answer comprehension questions should be planned.

This product includes a docx (MS WORD) file consisting of:

• Grades 6-12 Version (~22 Characters, 4200 words, 15 pages)
• Student & Teacher Reader's Theater Tips & Notes
• 10 Comprehension Short Answer/Discussion Questions and 10 Vocabulary Words
• Note: All files are in editable DOCX
• Character Note: There are 22 characters but some have only 1 or 2 lines, if necessary one student can read multiple lines. Likewise some of the main characters can be read by multiple students.

SAVE 40% and get the bundle: Thanksgiving Reader's Theater Scripts Bundle (5)

This script includes the following 6 short acts that are based on the different parts of Edward Winslow's primary source titled Mourt's Relation.

Act 1: Arrival and First Encounters
The Pilgrims embark on their voyage from England on the Mayflower, facing treacherous seas before finally arriving at Cape Cod in November. Upon arrival, they establish a sense of unity by signing the Mayflower Compact. They begin exploring the land, discovering signs of Native inhabitants, and facing their first winter. Despite harsh conditions, they endure the difficulties and choose to settle at Plymouth, laying the foundations for their new life with faith and determination.

Act 2: Building Relationships
The Pilgrims encounter Samoset, the first Native American they meet who speaks English. Through him, they meet Squanto, who becomes a valuable guide, teaching them crucial survival skills. They also meet Massasoit, the Wampanoag leader, and form a peace treaty, marking the beginning of an alliance. The Pilgrims continue building homes, explore the surrounding land, and establish a trade relationship with Native tribes, strengthening bonds through mutual respect and support.

Act 3: The Challenges of New Settlement
The Pilgrims face a harsh winter filled with illness and limited supplies, which claims many lives. With Squanto’s guidance, they experience a successful first harvest, which revitalizes their spirits. They also encounter challenges with neighboring tribes, including a plot against the colony. By fortifying their defenses and strengthening alliances, the Pilgrims maintain stability. New settlers arrive, and the Pilgrims develop community rules and governance to maintain harmony as they reflect on their progress.

Act 4: The First Thanksgiving
To celebrate their successful harvest and acknowledge their peaceful alliance with the Wampanoag, the Pilgrims hold a feast that later becomes known as the first Thanksgiving. Massasoit and his people join them, bringing venison and sharing traditions. Together, they prepare food, share stories, play games, and express gratitude for their blessings. This moment of unity and cooperation highlights themes of peace and gratitude, as both groups come together in celebration and mutual respect.

Act 5: The Aftermath and Future Hopes
As the Pilgrims approach their second winter, they reflect on their first year’s achievements and losses. They make plans to expand their settlement, secure resources, and prepare for future settlers. Maintaining alliances with Native tribes remains a priority as they work to ensure lasting peace. With the arrival of new settlers, the Pilgrims face the challenges of limited resources but resolve to overcome obstacles through unity and faith, seeing their colony as a foundation for future generations.

Act 6: A New Era
With the colony established, the Pilgrims expand trade networks to sustain their settlement. However, tensions arise with some neighboring tribes, leading the Pilgrims to practice diplomacy and maintain peace. As resources dwindle, they adopt a stewardship approach to ensure sustainability. New governance structures emerge, and the community establishes industries like fishing and farming. Committed to preserving their faith and values, the Pilgrims solidify alliances and envision a lasting legacy for the generations to come, rooted in resilience and unity.

General Tips for Using this Resource:

1. Print one, double-sided script for each student
2. For digital classrooms, upload the MSWORD DOC version and convert to Google docs
3. Character roles can be adjusted based on class size; characters can be combined or split as necessary