John Smith’s Journal

This primary source analysis worksheet supports students in Grades 5 and 6 as they practice historical interpretation, close reading, evidence-based reasoning, and analysis of perspective and bias. By examining excerpts from John Smith’s journal, students analyze how he presents himself, describes interactions with the Powhatan people, and explains his role in Jamestown’s survival, building a deeper understanding of reliability in historical texts.

Learning Goals

• Primary Source Analysis (Grades 5-6) – Examine firsthand historical writing to understand author perspective and purpose.
• Evaluating Bias & Reliability – Identify exaggeration, self-promotion, and potential bias in historical accounts.
• Reading Informational Texts – Analyze language, tone, and details in nonfiction excerpts.
• Evidence-Based Reasoning – Use specific textual evidence to judge credibility and accuracy.

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource – Designed by educators to align with upper elementary social studies and ELA standards.
• Structured Analysis Questions – Guides students step by step through interpretation and evaluation.
• Reliability Chart Included – Visual organizer helps students weigh evidence and form conclusions.
• Flexible Use – Suitable for whole-class analysis, small groups, assessments, or primary source units.

This printable worksheet helps students strengthen historical thinking, critical reading, and analytical reasoning by exploring how perspective and bias shape historical narratives. By evaluating John Smith’s journal as a primary source, learners gain essential skills in distinguishing reliable information from exaggeration. It’s a thoughtful, no-prep resource that works well in both classroom instruction and homeschool learning.

This worksheet is part of our Jamestown Settlement collection.