The American Crisis/Thomas Paine Article

Open The American Crisis passage. In what historical context was "The American Crisis" written?

• During the American Civil War

• At the start of the American Revolution

• During the drafting of the U.S. Constitution

• After the signing of the Treaty of Paris

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CCSS.RL.7.9

CCSS.RL.8.9

What is Paine's purpose when he says,  

"THESE are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman."

• To motivate the weary colonists to fight

• During this conflict is when people's true colors will show and only those who are truly dedicated will persevere

• To push others to face the challenge of war ahead with bravery and resilience

• All of the above

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CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

What is the primary persuasive technique used by Thomas Paine in "The American Crisis" to motivate the colonists to continue fighting against British rule?

• Emotional appeal

• Logical reasoning

• Statistical evidence

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.8

CCSS.RI.11-12.5

CCSS.RI.11-12.8

CCSS.RI.8.8

CCSS.RI.9-10.5

Which of the following best represents the main idea of "The American Crisis"?

• The British monarchy is compassionate and should be supported.

• The American colonies should seek peace with Britain at all costs.

• The struggle for independence is difficult but necessary for freedom.

• The American Revolution is a lost cause.

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.2

CCSS.RI.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

How does Thomas Paine summarize his key argument in "The American Crisis"?

• By stating that the war is unwinnable and should be abandoned.

• By emphasizing the moral obligation to fight for liberty.

• By highlighting the economic benefits of remaining under British rule.

• By suggesting that the colonies should negotiate a truce.

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CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

What is Paine's primary purpose in writing "The American Crisis"?

• To entertain readers with stories of the war.

• To inform the public about British military strategies.

• To persuade colonists to support the fight for independence.

• To criticize the leadership of the Continental Army.

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.6

CCSS.RI.11-12.6

CCSS.RL.11-12.6

CCSS.RL.8.6

CCSS.RL.9-10.6

How does Paine's use of the following phrase function in the text?

 "Quitting this class of men...and are yet determined to stand the matter out: I call not upon a few, but upon all: not on this state or that state, but on every state: up and help us; lay your shoulders to the wheel; better have too much force than too little, when so great an object is at stake"

• It provides a historical fact.

• It serves as a call to action.

• It offers a humorous anecdote.

• It introduces a new character.

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CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

What persuasive technique does Paine use when he refers to the British as "tyrants"?

• Bandwagon appeal

• Name-calling

• Testimonial

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.8

CCSS.RI.11-12.5

CCSS.RI.11-12.8

CCSS.RI.8.8

CCSS.RI.9-10.5

Which of the following best describes Paine's tone in "The American Crisis"?

• Apathetic and indifferent

• Optimistic and cheerful

• Urgent and passionate

• Sarcastic and mocking

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.6

CCSS.RI.11-12.6

CCSS.RI.8.6

CCSS.RL.11-12.6

CCSS.RL.9-10.6

What effect does Paine aim to achieve by using vivid imagery in his descriptions of the hardships faced by soldiers?

• To downplay the severity of the situation

• To evoke sympathy and support from the audience (the colonists)

• To confuse the reader with complex language

• To entertain with dramatic storytelling

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CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3