This set of primary sources and teaching resources focuses, primarily, on the time period 1800-1860. Western expansion stories from America’s Library Western expansion timeline (includes primary source activities) Primary source sets Primary source collections American migration timeline and maps (in English and Russian) The right of Nebraska, 1854 (sheet music) Key government documents related to territorial expansion…
List the different data you find on this map (view larger image). Conduct research to compare the data from this map from 1977 with current information and statistics. What similarities and differences did you find? Investigate reasons for the change(s) in data; describe your findings. What other observations, reflections or questions does this source inspire? Let…
Primary source analysis promotes information literacy, a vital skill for competent citizens. When selecting primary sources to use with students, keep the criteria listed below in mind to ensure valuable learning experiences. KNOW YOUR STUDENTS Engagement Will your students want to dig deep, ask questions, and learn more about the primary source? Is the source interesting?…
Activity Guidelines Gather minutemen-related primary sources and print them out or make them available to your primary students digitally. As a class or in groups, have students review different primary sources and note what they see, think, and wonder. Next, you may choose to have students review source bibliographic information or secondary source materials and…
Have students collaborate to compare U.S. newspaper coverage of the Battle of Little Bighorn with eyewitness accounts from Native Americans who were there. Ask them to compare descriptions of the battle as well as characterizations of opposing forces. Remind students to look for and note differences in tone, particularly as defined by word choice. You…