Language Arts/Social Studies Unit
Essential Questions: What
is the meaning of history? How do
we learn about history? What
sources can we use to learn about history?
Enduring Learning: The
students will activate prior knowledge and list ideas of what they think
history is. The students will use
pictures and other written sources to discuss what primary and secondary
sources are.
Assessment: The
students will complete the worksheet on primary and
Materials:
Suggested Procedures:
It is suggested this lesson
be completed in one day as a whole group.
1. Write the word ÒHistoryÓ on the chalkboard. Ask the students to give words or
phrases that represent what the meaning of history. Make a list on the board.
2. Put up each transparency of the sources of
history. Have each student write
in their writing journal what period they think the source is from and what
they think is going on. Discuss
each source and student responses.
Talk about the period the source covers and what was important and when
it happened. Example: Source # 1 Letters from the Civil War-
talk about why it was fought, when it was fought, and what the outcome was.
3. Talk about what primary sources are and how they are
different from secondary sources.
Make a list on the chalkboard of primary sources (photos,
advertisements, diary excerpts, letters, etc.) and a list of secondary sources
(paintings, movies, books, etc.).
Show different examples (see "Materials").
4. Pass out the worksheet on primary and secondary sources and have students complete. Do the first worksheet together as a class with source #1 and then have the students do a worksheet for sources #2-4. Discuss each one as they finish.
