George Washington commanded the Continental Army during the American Revolution, presided over the Constitutional Convention in 1787, and became the first president of the United States in 1789. In this activity, students study moments in his life that show what leadership looked like in the founding era.
Working in small groups, students examine short accounts of Washington’s decisions, identify the leadership qualities they reveal, and discuss why his choice to leave office after two terms set an important example for the new republic.
Activity at a glance
- Grade 5, about 30 minutes
- Format: small-group discussion and a short written response