Using Primary and Secondary Sources
Students learn to differentiate between primary (first-hand accounts) and secondary (interpretations) sources to understand local history.
Key Questions
- Differentiate between a primary source and a secondary source.
- Analyze how a photograph (primary source) can tell a story about the past.
- Evaluate the reliability of different sources when researching local history.
Common Core State Standards
Suggested Methodologies
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Planning templates for Communities & Regions
5E Model
The 5E Model structures lessons through five phases (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate), guiding students from curiosity to deep understanding through inquiry-based learning.
unit plannerThematic Unit
Organize a multi-week unit around a central theme or essential question that cuts across topics, texts, and disciplines, helping students see connections and build deeper understanding.
rubricSingle-Point Rubric
Build a single-point rubric that defines only the "meets standard" level, leaving space for teachers to document what exceeded and what fell short. Simple to create, easy for students to understand.
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