Using Primary and Secondary Sources

Read the passage about the volcanic eruption at Pompeii.

Why is the passage a primary source?

• It includes an interpretation by a historian.

• It was written by a well-respected historian.

• It includes a detailed description of the event.

• It was written by someone who witnessed the event.

The image depicts the eruption of Mount Vesuvius which occurred in AD 79. It was painted with oil on canvas by an unknown artist in 1812.

Why is the image a secondary source?

• It is a visual representation of the event.

• It was created after the event took place.

• It represents a historian’s view of the event.

• It includes detailed information about the event.

Read the passage about what happened in Pompeii after Mount Vesuvius erupted.

Why is the passage an example of a secondary source?

• The author is describing a firsthand account of the ruins of Pompeii.

• The author is providing commentary on his discovery in the ruins of Pompeii.

• The author is explaining what he experienced during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

• The author is presenting evidence about the damage caused by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Which statement describes a characteristic of a secondary source?

• It is a historical interpretation of a past event.

• It is created by a person who was at the event.

• It includes direct evidence of the time period being studied.

• It includes firsthand knowledge of the time period being studied.

Read the passage about the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Which question should be asked to verify that the source is credible?

• Does Pliny include emotions in this description?

• Is there evidence that supports Pliny’s description?

• Does Pliny share his perspective in this description?

• Is there relevant information in Pliny’s description?

How is it possible that an eyewitness account can be unverifiable?

• The eyewitness is biased about the event.

• The eyewitness is emotional about the event.

• The eyewitness is the only person who saw the event.

• The eyewitness shares multiple perspectives about the event.

Read the passage from a letter by Christopher Columbus.

Which action is the best way to verify the passage from the letter?

• Read the rest of the letter.

• Examine if the letter is relevant.

• Find evidence to corroborate the letter.

• Determine if the letter is a primary source.

Read the statement.

The Mount Vesuvius eruption was one of the worst disasters in human history.

Why is the statement an opinion?

• It is objective.

• It is subjective.

• It can be proven to be true.

• It reports events and ideas.

Read the passage about Ötzi the Iceman.

Whose viewpoint is represented in the passage?

• the killer’s

• the Iceman’s

• a historian’s

• an eyewitness’s

Read the passage.

Whose point of view is represented in the passage?

• an admiral’s

• an illustrator’s

• a historian’s

• an explorer’s