How and Why Do we Study History?

Why Study History? Class List

1. To help us understand the world today; to make better decisions; so that we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past

2. To help us understand other cultures and nations

3. To be better citizens4. To inspire us!5. To develop critical thinking skills

Quick 5 minute Quiz

1. What is a primary source?2. What is a secondary source?3. Is the Constitution primary or

secondary?4. Is your textbook primary or secondary?5. What is bias?6. What is point of view?

How do we study history?

What is a primary source? A document or object created during the time of study. These sources were present during the time of study

and therefore offer a special insight First-hand account of an event Examples:

Photographs Diaries The Constitution Letters Newspaper articles

How do we study History?

What is a secondary source? A source that analyzes and interprets primary sources These sources are at least one step removed from the

actual event. Second-hand account of event Examples:

Your textbook! Encyclopedias Biographies

How do we Study History?

What is bias? An unbalanced opinion Example: FOX news vs. CNN news Opinion articles in newspapers, especially on

controversial topicsWhat is point of view?

An opinion “My point of view on….”