The Middle Colonies of the United States were founded by a diverse group of people who came from different ethnic and religious backgrounds. Teaching students about the founders of the Middle Colonies is a great way to help them understand the diversity and complexity of the United States’ founding process. Here are some strategies and tips for teaching students about the founders of the Middle Colonies:
1. Focus on the different Colonies
It is essential to teach students about the founders of each of the Middle Colonies separately. Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Delaware were not founded by the same people. Focusing on their unique histories will help students understand the differences between them.
2. Use primary sources
Primary sources are an excellent way to engage students in historical research and help them learn more about the founders of the Middle Colonies. Utilize materials such as letters, diaries, and newspapers from the Colonial era to help students understand the perspectives and motivations of the founders.
3. Emphasize religious and cultural diversity
The Middle Colonies had a unique mix of religious and cultural diversity that set them apart from the other Colonies. Students should learn about the Quakers, the Dutch, the Germans, and other groups that settled in the region.
4. Connect the founding principles of the Colonies to the present day
Teach students how the founding principles of the Middle Colonies contributed to the development of the United States. For example, religious tolerance in Pennsylvania contributed to the First Amendment of the Constitution and the phrase “E pluribus unum” was adopted as the country’s motto after being first used in a Pennsylvania newspaper.
5. Incorporate activities and projects
Assigning tasks such as creating a timeline of the founders of each of the Middle Colonies, role-playing as historical figures during debates, and creating a brochure for a given colony are great ways to help students engage with the topic actively.
In summary, teaching students about the founders of the Middle Colonies is an essential part of US history education. It helps students develop a sense of appreciation for the diversity and complexity of the United States’ founding process. Using a variety of strategies and techniques, educators can help students understand the unique contributions of each of the founders of the Middle Colonies and how these principles relate to the present-day United States.
