Who Was Benjamin Franklin?
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Benjamin Franklin (1706 to 1790) was a key Founding Father of the United States. However, more than this, he was a true Renaissance man, making his presence felt in the fields of science, literature, political science, diplomacy and more.
For example, Franklin was a prolific inventor. Many of his creations are still in use today, including:
- The Franklin stove
- Bifocals
- A flexible catheter
- The lightning rod
Franklin was deeply involved in the founding of this country and even helped draft the Declaration of Independence. Help your students or children learn about this wise and respected Founding Father with these free printables.
Benjamin Franklin Word Search
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Print the pdf: Benjamin Franklin Word Search
In this first activity, students will locate 10 words commonly associated with Franklin. Use the activity to discover what they already know about Franklin and spark discussion about the terms with which they're unfamiliar.
Benjamin Franklin Vocabulary
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Print the pdf: Benjamin Franklin Vocabulary Sheet
In this activity, students match each of the 10 words from the word bank with the appropriate definition. It’s a perfect way for students to learn key terms associated with this Founding Father.
Benjamin Franklin Crossword Puzzle
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Print the pdf: Benjamin Franklin Crossword Puzzle
Invite your students to learn more about Franklin by matching the clue with the appropriate term in this fun crossword puzzle. Each key term has been included in a word bank to make the activity accessible for younger students.
Benjamin Franklin Challenge
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Print the pdf: Benjamin Franklin Challenge
This multiple-choice challenge will test your student's knowledge of the facts related to Franklin. Let your child practice his research skills by investigating at your local library or on the internet to discover the answers to questions about which he's unsure.
Benjamin Franklin Alphabet Activity
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Print the pdf: Benjamin Franklin Alphabet Activity
Elementary-age students can practice their alphabetizing skills with this activity. They'll place the words associated with Franklin in alphabetical order.
Benjamin Franklin Draw and Write
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Print the pdf: Benjamin Franklin Draw and Write Page.
Young children or students can draw a picture of Franklin and write a short sentence about him. Alternatively: Provide students with pictures of inventions Franklin created, and then have them draw a picture of their invention and write about it.
Benjamin Franklin Kite Puzzle
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Print the pdf: Benjamin Franklin Kite Puzzle Page
Children will love putting together this kite puzzle. Have them cut out the pieces, mix them up and then put them back together. Explain to students that in 1752, Franklin used a kite to prove that lightning is electricity
Benjamin Franklin Lightning Puzzle
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Print the pdf: Benjamin Franklin Kite Puzzle Page
As with the previous slide, have students cut out the pieces of this lightning puzzle and then reassemble them. Use this printable to give a brief lesson on lightning, explaining what it is and why you should be wary of it.
Benjamin Franklin Tic-Tac-Toe
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Print the pdf: Benjamin Franklin Tic-Tac-Toe Page.
Prepare ahead of time by cutting the pieces off at the dotted line and then cutting the pieces apart—or have older children do this themselves. Then, have fun playing Franklin tic-tac-toe with your students.