‘Ramparts’ are Protective Barriers

What are the ramparts in The Star Spangled Banner?

Interesting Facts in Easy English

Pre-Listening Vocabulary

  • rampart: a protective barrier; a fortification
  • spangled: filled with sparkling objects
  • national anthem: a country’s official song; used at special events and ceremonies
  • bombardment: attack
  • fortify: to build up and provide protection
  • embankment: a raised wall or mound to protect from flooding

Ramparts Are Protective Barriers

When you sing or listen to The Star Spangled Banner, do you the words? The national anthem of the United States of America was the Battle of Baltimore at Fort McHenry in 1814. The lyrics suggest that the stars and stripes of the US flag can be seen over the ramparts the bombardment of the British warships. Ramparts are fortified walls or other protective that go around a fort or castle. Ramparts are of stone, wood, or earth. Embankments that protect water from reaching a building or city are also ramparts.

Comprehension Questions

  1. What is The Star Spangled Banner?
  2. Why does the American national anthem contain the word ramparts?
  3. Why might a child make ramparts in the sand?

Discussion Questions: Do you think nations like the US will always have the same national anthem, or do you think anthems like The Star Spangled Banner will be modernized one day?

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