Argument on Washington's Christmas Crossing
Written by Adi Ackerman, Head Teacher
"Argument on Washington's Christmas Crossing" is written for 8th Grade (Ages 13-14), and it covers C3 Framework D4.1.6-8. A 7th grader who is already steady on road to revolution can use it too, and an older student can use it as a short review.


2 pages in this set
8th grade social studies worksheet: argue whether Washington's December 1776 attack on Trenton was worth the risk, from four cards. Answer key included. Part of our winning the war road to revolution collection. Aligned to C3 Framework standards.
How do I use this worksheet?
Start with the strategies organizer for the shape of the war. Use the Patriots and Loyalists chart next, then the two source based writing tasks.
What students will practice
- Students will read four source cards on Washington's attack on Trenton.
- Students will plan a claim with evidence and cite the card for each piece.
- Students will write an argument with a counterclaim on whether the attack was worth the risk.
Curriculum Links
C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards
Social Studies · 8th Grade
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Browse the grade, subject, and topic this belongs to.
FAQ
How do I use this winning the war worksheet?
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Start with the strategies organizer for the shape of the war. Use the Patriots and Loyalists chart next, then the two source based writing tasks.
What does this worksheet teach?
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Argue whether Washington's December 1776 attack on Trenton was worth the risk, from four cards. The directions on the page read: Read the four source cards about Washington's attack on Trenton. On page 2 you will use them to argue whether the attack was worth the risk. An answer key is included.
Can I use this winning the war worksheet for homeschool or classroom?
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Yes, both. We made it for 8th grade road to revolution, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.
How did the war move from north to south?
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Britain first tried to crush the rebellion in Massachusetts, then to cut off New England by taking New York. The organizer charts each phase's British goal, American response, result and turning point.
Why was the Trenton attack risky?
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Washington wrote that ice slowed the boats so much that his troops could not reach Trenton before daybreak. He pushed on because a retreat back across the river would be discovered.
What happened to Loyalists after the war?
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The Patriots and Loyalists sheet has students chart what happened to each side after 1783 from the text, along with their reasons, risks and allies.
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Worksheet Details
| Grade | 8th Grade |
| Subject | Social Studies |
| Topic | Road to Revolution |
| Standard | D4.1.6-8 |
| Pages | 2 pages |
| Difficulty | Medium |
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