Name
Little Historians, Big Ideas: Using Primary Sources in K–5 Classrooms
Description

What if primary sources weren’t intimidating artifacts locked behind complex language, but powerful tools that spark curiosity, discussion, and genuine “aha” moments for young learners? This session invites educators to step into the role of students and experience how short excerpts, images, and historical voices can be transformed into engaging learning moments. Participants will actively analyze real historical sources, ask compelling questions, and discover how even the youngest students can think critically about fairness, rules, rights, and community. If you’ve ever wondered how to make history feel alive—rather than distant or abstract—this session shows you exactly what that looks like in practice. 5 Minutes: Why Primary Sources in Elementary? Activity: Display a short, simplified historical quote (e.g., adapted from the Constitution or Mayflower Compact) Ask: “What do you think this person cared about?” 15 Minutes | Understanding Primary Sources Topics: What counts as a primary source in K–5? Scaffolding historical and primary source documents. Connection to civic virtues and principles. Participants examine a primary source lesson and identify vocabulary supports and inquiry questions. Discuss ideas for modification and usage in different classrooms. 15 Minutes | Experiencing a Primary Source Focus Lesson Example: “How Do Rules Help People Live Fairly Together?” Small groups analyze a simplified excerpt using: “I notice…” “I wonder…” 10 Minutes | Scaffolding primary sources for diverse learners. Chunking text using visuals and read alouds. Discuss ideas for implementation. Model and play two review games: Timeline Game and I Have, Who Has. 5 minutes: Wrap-Up

Track
Elementary Education
Date
Thursday, October 15, 2026
Time
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location Name
325
Professional Development (Renewal) Units
1
Session Format
Session - In-Person
This sectional targets grade level(s):
k-6