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Lesson

Two Views of the Relationship of Church and State

Duration
105 min
Grade
9–12
Published
Nov 5, 2020
Multi-story brick building with a large dome and minaret, set against a blue sky with clouds.
What were the Founders views of the relationship between Church and State? Examine quotes from the Founders and analyze excerpts from primary source documents regarding it.

Founding Principles

Freedom of Religion, Liberty

Learning objectives

  • Read and discuss the founding documents related to the relationship of church and state.
  • Compare and contrast the eras in which states disestablished their official churches.
  • Compare and contrast the views of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson regarding their understanding of the relationship between church and state through analyzing documents and scenarios.

Materials

  • Handout A: The Relationship of Church and State in America
  • Handout B: Quotes from the Founding about the Relationship of Church and State
  • Handout C: Map of Disestablishment in the United States
  • Handout D: George Washington, “Farewell Address”
  • Handout E: Thomas Jefferson, “Letter to the Danbury Baptists”
  • Handout F: Scenario Cards

Lesson Components

ActivityHandout A: The Relationship of Church and State in America
ActivityHandout B: Quotes from the Founding about the Relationship of Church and State
ActivityHandout C: Map of Disestablishment in the United States
ActivityHandout D: George Washington, “Farewell Address”
ActivityHandout E: Thomas Jefferson, “Letter to the Danbury Baptists”
ActivityHandout F: Two Views of the Relationship of Church and State Scenario Cards
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Lesson plan

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Standards

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