This is one example of a lesson created using primary source docs and the organizational tools provided by docsteach. It was accessed from the National Archives website as a means to organize the data gathered there. I would use this idea as a springboard for fourth grade westward expansion activities.
This is one example of a lesson created using primary source docs and the organizational tools provided by docsteach. It was accessed from the National Archives website as a means to organize the data gathered there. I would use this idea as a springboard for fourth grade westward expansion activities.
This site was developed by educators working with the National Archives. It is an incredible site where you can design your own interactive activity with primary sources. There are seven kinds of activities you can build based on the type of learning you want student to achieve: finding a sequence, focusing on details, making connections, mapping history, seeing the big picture, weighing the evidence, and interpreting data. There are also a lot of really insightful pre-made activities that would work with many different grade levels. This site is just extraordinary! I plan to start using it right away!
This is a wonderful site to help "bring history to life". I love how there are thumb nail images of each photo/drawing and written documents to give you a quick preview. My favorite feature is the interactive activities. This is something worth using with students and sharing with all staff!
This patent drawing by Eli Whitney for his cotton gin could be used at the elementary level when taking about the impact of Whitney's invention, or at the senior high level when discussing patent applications.
This drawing submitted by Eli Whitney for his cotton gin patent application could be used at the elementary level when discussing Whitney's invention and its impact. Students will be able to see what a cotton gin looks like and how it operates. This document could also be used at the senior high level when discussing patent applications.
This site is arranged by historical eras. It is easy to also search by keywords. Its purpose is to help student develop historical thinking skills. It also has a creation tool where teachers can make their own interactive activities to go with the documents. To access this you do have to create an account.
I liked the educational direction this site provides for teachers. Besides the documents, this site provides lessons using the primary documents, and training on best practices for their use.