Primary & Secondary Sources

When it comes to researching about a topic today, there are plenty of sources available to students. The internet, which is probably a 6th graders first stop, contains vast amounts of information available in a fraction of a second. Students also commonly use books or magazine articles from the local library. No matter where you go for information, there are two main types of sources: Primary & Secondary. The video below explains each type of source and gives examples.


   


 Most of the research currently done by students is with secondary sources, like Encyclopedias or websites. However it is important to learn to use primary sources too! This year in school, students will practice analyzing primary sources and interpreting their meaning. While more challenging, this process will allow students to gain a deeper understanding of the past. 

For class tomorrow, bring the definition of each type of source and examples of each type of source to class. 

 - Mr. Goldstein

Want more help with Primary Sources? Click this link!

Photograph of Abraham Lincoln

Cuneiform Writing from Mesopotamia