Activity Overview
This activity can serve as an introduction or a helpful formative assessment following the introduction of primary and secondary sources. Students will use a frayer model to assess whether a source is a primary or secondary source and why.
The completed example above is copied into the account when you click "Use This Assignment" and can serve as a helpful guide when reviewing the answers from students. However, a blank template is also provided for students and can be tailored depending on which documents you would like students to assess. You may choose to fill in the document titles for them and/or include an illustration or photo in the cell.
The four documents and correct answers for this activity are:
- The Bixby Letter
- Time Magazine
- Birthday Photograph
- Boston Tea Party Museum Artifact
Extended Activity:
For this extension activity, students should create a four-panel storyboard that represents objects, artifacts, or other historical or personal documents and their information. Similar to the example from above, students will define whether each document is a primary or secondary source along with the required rationale.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Activities
Create a frayer model that assesses whether or not each source is a primary or secondary source.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In each title box, identify the document's name or title.
- In the description, assess whether it is a primary or secondary source and why.
- Create an illustration for each document using appropriate scenes, characters, items, or photos from Photos for Class.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
This activity can serve as an introduction or a helpful formative assessment following the introduction of primary and secondary sources. Students will use a frayer model to assess whether a source is a primary or secondary source and why.
The completed example above is copied into the account when you click "Use This Assignment" and can serve as a helpful guide when reviewing the answers from students. However, a blank template is also provided for students and can be tailored depending on which documents you would like students to assess. You may choose to fill in the document titles for them and/or include an illustration or photo in the cell.
The four documents and correct answers for this activity are:
- The Bixby Letter
- Time Magazine
- Birthday Photograph
- Boston Tea Party Museum Artifact
Extended Activity:
For this extension activity, students should create a four-panel storyboard that represents objects, artifacts, or other historical or personal documents and their information. Similar to the example from above, students will define whether each document is a primary or secondary source along with the required rationale.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Activities
Create a frayer model that assesses whether or not each source is a primary or secondary source.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In each title box, identify the document's name or title.
- In the description, assess whether it is a primary or secondary source and why.
- Create an illustration for each document using appropriate scenes, characters, items, or photos from Photos for Class.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Source Identification
How to teach students to find reliable primary and secondary sources online
Guide your students in using safe, age-appropriate research tools to locate both primary and secondary sources. Show them how to use search filters, check website credibility, and recognize trustworthy domains (.edu, .gov, museums). This empowers students to become confident, independent researchers.
Model using search terms that match your research question
Demonstrate how to break down a research question and brainstorm keywords. Explain why specific, relevant keywords produce better results. Have students practice by suggesting search terms aloud before searching online.
Discuss how to evaluate website credibility
Show students how to check who published a source, when it was created, and if it's from a reputable organization. Point out red flags like excessive ads or unclear authorship. Use examples to compare credible and non-credible sites.
Encourage students to cross-check facts with multiple sources
Remind students to verify information by checking at least two different sources. This reduces the risk of using inaccurate or biased information. Model this process using a sample fact or event.
Have students reflect on why a source is primary or secondary
Ask students to explain their reasoning for classifying each source. Encourage them to share examples and justify their choices in small groups or as a class. This deepens understanding and promotes critical thinking.
Frequently Asked Questions about Source Identification
What is a frayer model for teaching primary and secondary sources?
A Frayer model is a visual organizer that helps students define concepts by describing their characteristics, examples, and non-examples. For primary and secondary sources, it guides students to identify, classify, and justify whether a source is primary or secondary, supporting deeper understanding.
How can I help students distinguish between primary and secondary sources?
To help students distinguish primary from secondary sources, use activities like the Frayer model, provide real examples (letters, photos, articles), and encourage them to explain their reasoning. Discussing the origin, purpose, and timing of each document makes the differences clear.
What are some examples of primary and secondary sources for middle or high school lessons?
Primary sources include items like the Bixby Letter, original photographs, and historical artifacts. Secondary sources can be magazine articles, textbooks, or museum descriptions. Choose sources relevant to your lesson topic for best engagement.
How do you use a Frayer model in a history or social studies classroom?
In a history or social studies classroom, use the Frayer model by having students label source titles, define if each is primary or secondary, include a rationale, and add an illustration. This process deepens analysis and supports visual learners.
What’s an easy formative assessment for primary vs secondary source understanding?
An easy formative assessment is to assign a Frayer model template where students classify a set of sources and explain their reasoning. This quickly shows their grasp of the concept and highlights any misconceptions.
More Storyboard That Activities
Primary and Secondary Sources
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