School Then and Now

Activity #3: Looking at Primary Sources

Materials:

• Access to a computer or Internet OR
• Print out of oral histories
• Worksheet
• Pencil

Curriculum Objectives

4th grade – Kansas History Standard, Benchmark 4, Indicator 4:  The student identifies and compares information from primary and secondary sources (e.g. photographs, diaries/journals, newspapers, historical maps)
Note:  For an introduction to one-room schools, have the children read the background information, or read it to the class.

Instructions:

1. Explain the difference between primary and secondary sources to the class. Use the information provided on the Primary and Secondary Sources page to assist you.
2. Have the students select one of the Lanesfield School primary sources on www.jocohistory.net. If the students do not have computer access, print out the primary sources and allow them to choose one of the primary sources.
3. Allow a few minutes for the students to read their primary sources.
4. Pass out the worksheets for this activity and provide time for students to answer those questions.

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