Students become deeply attached to their work when allowed to become historians. They ask strong questions, dig deeply, and eagerly share new understandings. In order to achieve success, however, students need to have adequate background knowledge and the skills to read and interpret primary sources. The following pages include teaching strategies and example videos of this process.
Gaining Background Knowledge through the Close Read of Text
Successful comprehension of a primary source depends on background knowledge.
- Reading Tools
Knowledge Charts, Text Coding, Visualizing
Creating Summative Tasks
Writing tasks also involves stress-testing the materials to be sure students can be successful.
Investigating a Topic through Primary Source Analysis
Primary source analysis is a learned skill and should be practiced throughout the year.
- Historical Thinking Skills: Sourcing, Causation, Cause & Effect, Multiple Perspectives
Taking Informed Action
Providing students with opportunities to share their work with an authentic audience is inspirational to all.