Primary vs. Secondary Sources Flashcard

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What is a Primary Source?

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A Primary Source is an original document or firsthand account created at the time of an event. Examples include diaries, photographs, and interviews.

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What is a Secondary Source?

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A Secondary Source is a document or recording that relates or discusses information originally presented elsewhere. Examples include textbooks, articles about events, and biographies.

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Give an example of a Primary Source related to history.

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An example of a Primary Source is a letter written by a soldier during a war.

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Give an example of a Secondary Source related to history.

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An example of a Secondary Source is a documentary film about a historical event.

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What type of source is an autobiography?

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An autobiography is a Primary Source because it is a firsthand account of a person's life written by that person.

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What type of source is a textbook?

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A textbook is a Secondary Source because it summarizes and interprets information from Primary Sources.

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What is the significance of Primary Sources in research?

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Primary Sources provide direct evidence and firsthand accounts, allowing researchers to get closer to the actual events.

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What is the significance of Secondary Sources in research?

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Secondary Sources help to analyze, interpret, and provide context to Primary Sources, making them valuable for understanding broader themes.

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Is a photograph taken during an event a Primary or Secondary Source?

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A photograph taken during an event is a Primary Source.

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Is a newspaper article written about an event after it happened a Primary or Secondary Source?

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A newspaper article written after an event is a Secondary Source.