Why These Four Presidents - Worksheet for Pairs A

Text for pairs A

"₁ Why These Four Presidents?
Gutzon Borglum selected these four presidents because from his perspective, they represented the most important events in the history of the United States. 

George Washington, First President of the United States

₂ Born 1732, died 1799. Washington led the colonists in the American Revolutionary War to win independence from Great Britain. He was the father of the new country and laid the foundation of American democracy.₃ Because of his importance, Borglum chose Washington to be the most prominent figure on the mountain and represent the birth of the United States."

1. Read and understand. Read the short text above about your president.
a. Write 5-8 key words or short phrases about your president. You will not copy the full biography or full sentences.
b. Think about:

• Important dates (birth, death, time in office)
• Main achievements
• What he represents on Mount Rushmore

You may use the internet to do a little extra research.

2. Find a visual.
Choose a picture, symbol, or map that shows something significant about your president. 
Important: You must explain why you chose this visual.

3. Practise your presentation.
Speak loud enough, slowly and clearly. Rehearse as many times as you need to be able not to read your notes.
Your presentation should be about 1-2 minutes long.

4. Present to the class.
Share your president, your visual, and explain why his face was chosen for Mount Rushmore.
Be ready to answer one or two simple questions from your classmates.

Remember to:

• Speak clearly and confidently
• Show you understand your president’s importance
• Include and explain your visual
• Use your own words
  

5. Fill in your "Personal Recap Chart."