Significance of Sources

Students read a reflection passage about a student researching World War II using various primary and secondary sources. After reading, they respond to a written prompt explaining why distinguishing between the two types of sources is important in historical study. This activity encourages students to think deeply about how firsthand accounts offer personal evidence, while secondary sources provide broader explanations and context. Learners develop historical reasoning, written analysis, and a clearer understanding of reliable research practices.

Curriculum Matched Skills

Social Studies – Understanding the Role of Source Types in Research

English Language Arts – Constructed Written Response

Social Studies – Historical Inquiry and Evidence Evaluation

Critical Thinking – Comparing Multiple Perspectives

This worksheet is part of our primary vs. secondary sources worksheets collection.