Why the Articles of Confederation Failed
Free to teach as-is — the teacher guide, student handout, and slides are included.
Free — we'll email you an access link. Google Docs format.
Objective
I can identify the main weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.
Part 1 of 3
Key concepts
3 concepts
- 1
Under the Articles of Confederation, the central government lacked the power to collect taxes and had to request money from the states.
- 2
The Articles of Confederation created economic problems because there was no national currency and no national court system to settle disputes.
- 3
A major weakness was the absence of a single executive leader to enforce laws, and amending the Articles required the agreement of all 13 states.
Part 2 of 3
Practice
3 questions
What was one major problem the central government faced under the Articles of Confederation regarding its ability to raise money?
How did the absence of a national currency affect trade between the states under the Articles of Confederation?
Part 3 of 3
Exit ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Based on the reading passage, identify and explain three major weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
Get the materials
Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format
Teacher Guide
Complete lesson plan with answer keys and alternate activities
Student Handout
Printable worksheet
Slides
Ready to present
We'll ask for your email to send your access link — nothing else.
Teaching a group at a different level?
Where are your students right now? We'll rebuild this lesson to match — including the teacher guide, student handout, and slides, saved to your Google Drive.
Adapt This Lesson