Understanding Primary and Secondary Sources

Which of the following is NOT typically considered a primary source?

• A scientific lab report

• A newspaper article written at the time of an event

• An encyclopedia entry

• A diary entry from a historical figure

In the field of history, which of the following would be considered a primary source?

• A biography of a historical figure

• A letter written by a soldier during a war

• A documentary about World War II

• A textbook on ancient civilizations

What is a key characteristic of secondary sources?

• They are always written in the form of articles.

• They analyze and interpret primary sources.

• They provide firsthand accounts of events.

• They are created by someone directly involved in the event.

Which word is often associated with primary sources?

• Critique

• Overview

• Examine

• Analysis

Which of the following is an example of a secondary source?

• The Declaration of Independence

• A practical guide to legal research

• The autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

• On the Origin of Species