Primary and Secondary Sources Test

A primary source is:

• A textbook description of an event

• A firsthand account created during the time of an event

• A modern interpretation of historical events

• A summary written by a historian

Which of the following is an example of a PRIMARY source about Ancient Egypt?

• A modern history book about pyramids

• A hieroglyphic inscription on a tomb wall

• A documentary about Egyptian culture

• A museum display about pharaohs

Classify each source as PRIMARY (P) or SECONDARY (S)

Groups:

(a) PRIMARY (P)

,

(b) SECONDARY (S)

• An archaeological report about Pompeii

• A history textbook chapter about the Roman Empire

• A pottery fragment from Ancient Greece

• A personal diary from a Roman soldier

• A YouTube video about Ancient Civilizations

Answer explanation

Read what a Spanish explorer wrote in his diary a long time ago. Then answer the question about this passage.

"The people we found here are like children. They are not civilized and do not have our religion. We must teach them our way of life. The gold and silver they have shows they don't know what is truly valuable. We will help them by taking these items and sharing with them the greatness of our country."

What is the most likely bias, or unfair feeling, the explorer has?

• The explorer thinks his religion is the only correct one.

• The explorer doesn't like the gold and silver he found.

• The explorer thinks his culture and way of life are better than the native people's.

• The explorer has a good and kind feeling toward the native people.

An archaeologist discovers a small, sharp tool made of polished obsidian (volcanic glass) at a Paleolithic campsite. The tool is found alongside the bones of a wooly mammoth. Microscopic analysis shows that the tool has fine, intricate carvings along its handle and is attached to a wooden shaft.

Based on this primary source, what can we most likely conclude about the people who made this tool?

• They used the tool for religious rituals.

• They had a belief in an afterlife.

• They were skilled artisans who hunted large game.

• They lived in permanent settlements.

Explain the difference between a primary and secondary source. Give one example of each.

What is a benefit to studying a variety of both primary and secondary sources when learning about social studies?

What are some ways to decide whether a historical source is reliable?