Classroom Activities

1. Hand each group a source and a blank profile.
2. Fill in name, place, year and 'about' from the source.
3. Write 3 posts in that person's voice; each must point to a line in the source.
4. Add 2 comments from other people of the time.
5. Gallery share: classmates 'like' the most accurate post.

Adaptations: K-5: three posts with pictures. 9-12: add a 'friends list' that must be historically accurate.

Idea inspired by weareteachers.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Pair two sources that disagree or connect.
2. Students read both.
3. Write 8-12 text bubbles between the two voices.
4. Every bubble needs a fact or idea from the sources.
5. Read the best threads aloud.

Adaptations: Allow emojis only if students can explain them.

Idea inspired by ditchthattextbook.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Assign each student a source.
2. Write 1-2 posts from that source, stamped with its date.
3. Post them in order on a wall feed.
4. Add replies to each other's posts.
5. Ask: which post would have gone viral, and why?

Adaptations: Use a paper strip along the wall for the feed.

Idea inspired by edutopia.org (rewritten for our sources).

1. Set the code using the sources' years (the planner does this).
2. Teams get clue cards, one per source.
3. Each clue sends them into a source for one digit.
4. Try the code; wrong tries cost 1 minute.
5. Inside the box: the big question. Answer it to 'escape.'

Adaptations: K-5 version: picture clues and a 3-digit code.

Idea inspired by history-uk.ac.uk (rewritten for our sources).

1. Frame the charge as a question about a decision, not a person's identity.
2. Assign judge, lawyers, witnesses, jury.
3. Witnesses prepare testimony from their source only.
4. Run openings, testimony, cross-examination, closings.
5. Jury decides and explains using the evidence.

Adaptations: Short version: one class period, two witnesses per side.

Idea inspired by reddit.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Give each team a source with a plan, idea or invention.
2. Teams build a 2-minute pitch: the problem, the solution, the evidence.
3. Investors (classmates or teacher) ask tough questions.
4. Investors spend play money.
5. Debrief: which idea really took off in history?

Adaptations: K-5: pitch an everyday invention from a photo.

Idea inspired by reddit.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Hand out the source and a poster template.
2. Fill in: last seen (place, year), known for, description.
3. Add a sketch.
4. Write the 'reward' question you'd ask them.
5. Hang posters; class votes on the best reward question.

Adaptations: For older students: a 'Wanted: Evidence' poster listing what we still don't know.

1. Assign each segment a source.
2. Write a headline and 3 facts from it.
3. Assign anchor, reporter and eyewitness.
4. Rehearse once, then perform or record.
5. Class picks the most accurate segment.

Adaptations: Podcast version for shy students: audio only.

1. Pair two sources.
2. Plan an intro, three talking points, a 'hot take', and a sign-off.
3. Each point quotes a source.
4. Record 3-4 minutes.
5. Swap and listen to another pair's episode.

Adaptations: Live 'radio show' if no devices.

1. Seed the sources in a bracket.
2. Each matchup: pairs argue which source answers the question better.
3. Class votes; winner advances.
4. Repeat to the final.
5. Write why the champion won.

Adaptations: Use figures or inventions instead of sources for a review day.

Idea inspired by reddit.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Print one page of the source.
2. Read it once for meaning.
3. Circle 10-20 words that carry the main idea.
4. Black out everything else.
5. Share and explain how the poem stays true to the source.

Adaptations: Copy the page first so the original stays clean.

1. Show the earlier sources one by one.
2. Pairs list patterns they notice.
3. Predict what the next source will show.
4. Reveal it.
5. Discuss what surprised them.

Adaptations: K-5: picture sources only.

1. Tag each source as Exhibit A, B, C...
2. Detectives examine each exhibit and log clues.
3. Connect clues on the board.
4. Write a case solution with 2 exhibits as proof.
5. Present the solution; others try to poke holes.

Adaptations: Younger kids: 3 exhibits and a picture clue log.

1. Set up one station per source with a task.
2. Teams get route card 1.
3. Finish the task correctly to get the next card.
4. Add one 'roadblock' a single teammate must do.
5. First team to the finish answers the big question.

Adaptations: Walk-only rule; stations at desks if space is tight.

1. Put the sources in a box in a planned order.
2. Pull out the first; students guess the topic.
3. Pull the next; revise guesses.
4. After the last, reveal the topic and question.
5. Ask which item changed their guess most.

Adaptations: Add a real object or replica if you have one.

1. Give each group 3-4 sources.
2. Write an exhibit title.
3. Write a museum label for each source.
4. Pick a docent; others tour.
5. Visitors leave one question card per exhibit.

Adaptations: Invite another class to tour.

1. Order the sources by date.
2. One panel per source.
3. Draw the scene; caption with a fact from the source.
4. Add one speech bubble quoting or paraphrasing it.
5. Share in pairs.

Adaptations: Stick figures welcome; the caption is what counts.

1. Pair two sources with different viewpoints.
2. Read both.
3. Rewrite one event from source A as source B's author would tell it.
4. Swap with a partner who did the reverse.
5. Discuss: what changed and why?

Adaptations: Keep it to what each source actually supports.

1. Pick a figure from a source.
2. List skills and experience with evidence.
3. Choose a job they'd apply for.
4. Write a short cover letter.
5. Hold 'interviews' with a partner.

Adaptations: K-5: 'help wanted' ad instead.

Idea inspired by ditchthattextbook.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Assign states with population info.
2. Debate representation, then executive power.
3. Vote state by state.
4. Write your class compromise.
5. Compare to the real Constitution and Federalist essays.

Adaptations: One-day version: one issue only.

Idea inspired by thecleverteacher.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Round 1: each student makes 3 items alone.
2. Round 2: split the work into steps on a line.
3. Count output and quality.
4. Discuss pros and cons for workers and owners.
5. Read a source from the period.

Adaptations: Add a 'speed-up' round for older kids.

1. Give each student play money.
2. Announce prices each 'day'; students buy and sell.
3. Allow buying on margin.
4. Announce October 1929 prices.
5. Debrief with sources on the crash and depression.

Adaptations: Simplify to 3 stocks for 6-8.

Idea inspired by reddit.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Give groups goods cards and a goal list.
2. Open trade; groups move to bargain.
3. Add an event card (storm, new tax).
4. Check who met their goal.
5. Connect to travelers' sources.

Adaptations: K-5: 3 goods only.

1. Two teams, five rounds.
2. Each round: secretly choose Build or Invest.
3. Reveal and score.
4. Allow one round of talks.
5. Connect to Cold War sources.

Adaptations: Add a 'third country' team for 9-12.

1. Give each group ration points and a budget.
2. Plan meals.
3. Draw a surprise card (shortage, guests).
4. Adjust the plan.
5. Read a wartime source about home life.

Adaptations: K-5: plan one dinner.

1. Line teams up.
2. Runner reads a card at the front.
3. Team helps; runner writes the answer.
4. Correct = point; next runner goes.
5. Most points wins bragging rights.

Adaptations: Walking relay to keep it safe.

1. Give delegations a secret goal card.
2. Negotiate in rounds.
3. Draft a treaty.
4. Reveal goals: who got theirs?
5. Compare with the real treaty.

Adaptations: 6-8: fewer delegations.

Idea inspired by reddit.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Pick a position from a source.
2. Write a slogan.
3. Add 2 evidence points.
4. Design the poster.
5. Gallery vote on most convincing.

Adaptations: Rule: every claim must be traceable to a source.

1. Pick a person.
2. Add picture, dates, and 3 'stats.'
3. Add a short quote or paraphrase.
4. Swap cards.
5. Use cards to answer the big question.

Adaptations: Laminate for reuse.

Idea inspired by michaelkmilton.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Pick a host and 4 panelists.
2. Each panelist studies one source.
3. Host asks questions; panel answers from sources.
4. Audience asks one question each.
5. Audience votes on the best answer.

Adaptations: Rotate panelists halfway.

1. Form groups of 4, then two pairs.
2. Pair A argues yes, Pair B argues no, using the sources (4 min each).
3. Pairs restate the other side's best points.
4. Switch sides and argue again.
5. Drop the roles and write a consensus answer with evidence.

Adaptations: 6-8: give sentence starters for each side.

Idea inspired by oercommons.org (rewritten for our sources).

1. Read the textbook paragraph together.
2. Read each source.
3. Sort each source: confirms, challenges, adds, or brings to life.
4. Rewrite the textbook paragraph using the sources.
5. Share the best rewrites.

Adaptations: Use your own textbook; any paragraph on the topic works.

Idea inspired by youtube.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Model one card out loud.
2. Pairs fill a card for each source.
3. Compare cards with another pair.
4. Circle the source you trust most and why.
5. Answer the big question.

Adaptations: K-5 version: Who? When? What do I see?

Idea inspired by inquirygroup.org (rewritten for our sources).

1. Show the source. Rules: ask as many questions as you can, don't stop to answer, write them exactly.
2. Groups write questions for 5 minutes.
3. Mark questions open or closed; change one of each to the other kind.
4. Pick the 3 most important.
5. Use the other sources to try to answer them.

Adaptations: K-5: whole-class list on the board.

Idea inspired by loc.gov (rewritten for our sources).

1. Read the statement.
2. Students sit on the agree or disagree side.
3. Speakers alternate sides; each must cite a source.
4. Before speaking, restate the last speaker's point.
5. Anyone convinced walks to the other side.

Adaptations: Add a middle row for 'undecided.'

Idea inspired by cultofpedagogy.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Assign three groups a source each and one group as provocateurs.
2. Groups prep questions.
3. One speaker from each group sits in the center square.
4. Discuss; swap speakers every 4 minutes.
5. Debrief: whose view held up best?

Adaptations: Smaller class: three groups, no provocateurs.

Idea inspired by cultofpedagogy.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Groups of 4-5, each with a source.
2. Discuss for 6 minutes.
3. Two members move to a new group.
4. Share the old group's best idea, then discuss the new source.
5. Rotate once more, then whole-class wrap.

Adaptations: Use roles: summarizer, questioner.

Idea inspired by cultofpedagogy.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Pose the evaluative question.
2. Groups take corners for different answers.
3. Build an argument from the sources.
4. Each group presents; others take notes on strengths and weaknesses.
5. Final verdict exit ticket with evidence. Judge by the standards of the time, too.

Adaptations: Remind students to avoid judging only by today's standards.

Idea inspired by thinkingnation.org (rewritten for our sources).

1. Write the dilemma at both ends.
2. Students write tugs from the sources.
3. Place tugs: stronger reasons go farther out.
4. Add 'what if?' questions above the rope.
5. Decide where the knot should land.

Adaptations: K-5: 2 tugs per side.

Idea inspired by pz.harvard.edu (rewritten for our sources).

1. Assign a source to each group.
2. Put its main idea in your own words.
3. Present: should we adopt this?
4. Secret ballot on each.
5. Reveal what actually happened.

Adaptations: Great for amendments and treaties.

Idea inspired by loc.gov (rewritten for our sources).

1. Show the question.
2. Write a one-sentence claim.
3. Find two pieces of evidence in different sources.
4. Explain how each connects.
5. Trade with a partner who argues the other side.

Adaptations: K-5: one piece of evidence.

Idea inspired by billofrightsinstitute.org (rewritten for our sources).

1. Choose 1-3 sentences.
2. Read aloud together.
3. Break into phrases; put each in your own words.
4. Practice in pairs.
5. Recite and explain one phrase to the class.

Adaptations: K-5: one sentence with motions.

Idea inspired by hillsdale.edu (rewritten for our sources).

1. Read the first lines aloud while students follow.
2. Students join the reading.
3. Pairs paraphrase each section in column two.
4. Compare paraphrases.
5. Write a one-sentence summary.

Adaptations: Chunk the text into 3-5 parts.

Idea inspired by gilderlehrman.org (rewritten for our sources).

1. Assign petitioners, respondents, justices.
2. Teams prep arguments from sources.
3. Each side argues 5 minutes; justices interrupt.
4. Justices deliberate aloud.
5. Compare to the real ruling.

Adaptations: Short version: one question per justice.

Idea inspired by icivics.org (rewritten for our sources).

1. Hand out the cipher key.
2. Teams decode card 1.
3. The decoded word names a source to read.
4. Answer that source's question to get the next card.
5. Final code word reveals the big question.

Adaptations: K-5: simple letter-number code.

Idea inspired by teacherspayteachers.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Post the source titles.
2. Hand out clue cards.
3. Students walk and match each card to a title.
4. Check answers.
5. Discuss which clue gave it away.

Adaptations: K-5: picture clues.

1. Read the source.
2. Pick 3 emojis for reactions of people at the time.
3. Explain each with evidence.
4. Compare in pairs.
5. Share the most surprising choice.

Adaptations: Draw faces if no emoji sheet.

Idea inspired by teacherspayteachers.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Label each side of the line.
2. Groups place each source card.
3. Borderline cards go near the line.
4. Gallery check other groups' lines.
5. Discuss the hardest card.

Adaptations: Use hula hoops for a Venn version.

1. Pick two sources.
2. Note each author's view.
3. Write a letter from one to the other.
4. Include two facts from the sources.
5. Trade and write a reply.

Adaptations: K-5: postcard size.

1. Read the source.
2. Write 5 searches the author might type.
3. Each must connect to the source.
4. Pairs guess whose source it was.
5. Share the funniest accurate one.

Adaptations: Add 'search history' timestamps for extra challenge.

Idea inspired by teacherspayteachers.com (rewritten for our sources).

1. Post four answer signs in the corners.
2. Read or project the source.
3. Students walk to the corner they agree with.
4. Each corner builds its best reason using the source.
5. One speaker per corner shares; anyone may switch corners.

Adaptations: K-5: use pictures on the signs. 9-12: require a quote before anyone switches.

1. Put Agree and Disagree at opposite walls.
2. Read a statement tied to the source.
3. Students stand on the line.
4. Pair with someone far from you and trade one reason.
5. Re-read the source; anyone may move.

Adaptations: Keep statements about the evidence, not about classmates. Let shy students stand with a partner.

1. Show the source.
2. Read a statement.
3. Students stand for true, sit for false.
4. Call on one stander and one sitter to explain.
5. Reveal the answer from the source.

Adaptations: Add 'crouch' for 'not sure' so nobody has to guess.

1. Hand each student a source card with the date hidden.
2. Students read and guess when it fits.
3. Class lines up oldest to newest without talking.
4. Reveal dates and fix the line.
5. Ask: where is the biggest turning point?

Adaptations: K-5: show dates and just order them. 9-12: add a 'cause' string between neighbors.

1. Post sources around the room.
2. Groups start at different stations.
3. 3-4 minutes per station: notes on one question.
4. Rotate on the timer.
5. Debrief: which source best answers the question?

Adaptations: K-5: fewer stations, picture-heavy. Use sticky notes so groups add to each other's thinking.

1. Post or spread out the sources.
2. Give teams a list of 8-10 'find a...' clues.
3. Teams find and record the source and evidence.
4. First team with all clues checks in.
5. Review the hardest clue together.

Adaptations: Older kids: clues ask for inferences, not facts.

1. Cover the title, date and author.
2. Pairs list clues: words, objects, style.
3. Guess who, when and why.
4. Reveal one label at a time.
5. Ask: which clue was strongest?

Adaptations: K-5: give three choices to pick from.

1. Print one image and cut it in quarters.
2. Reveal one piece.
3. Students guess and explain.
4. Reveal the next piece.
5. Show the full source and its caption.

Adaptations: Project crops instead of printing.

1. Assign 2-4 students as figures; give them their source.
2. Reporters write 3 questions from the sources.
3. Figures answer in character, using their source.
4. Reporters write a headline.
5. Share headlines and compare.

Adaptations: K-5: teacher plays the figure.

1. Give each group a side and its sources.
2. Groups plan goals and red lines.
3. Run the summit with a moderator.
4. Groups vote or sign a deal.
5. Compare the deal to what really happened.

Adaptations: Shorter version: 2 sides, 15 minutes.

1. Read the excerpt aloud twice.
2. Students sketch for 90 seconds.
3. Share in pairs.
4. Point to the words that made each detail.
5. Compare with an image from the period.

Adaptations: Allow labels and stick figures.

1. Everyone reads the source.
2. Each student writes one question.
3. Crumple and toss on your signal for 10 seconds.
4. Grab one and answer it in writing.
5. Share the best answers.

Adaptations: Set a clear 'stop' signal and a 'throw underhand' rule.

1. Show the source.
2. Play music while students walk.
3. Stop: pair up with the closest person.
4. Discuss the prompt for 60 seconds.
5. Repeat with a new prompt 3-4 times.

Adaptations: No chairs needed, no one is out.

1. Each student gets one source.
2. Pair up; explain your source in 1 minute each.
3. Inner or outer row shifts on the timer.
4. After 5 rounds, pick the most convincing source.
5. Defend your pick in writing.

Adaptations: K-5: images only, 1 minute rounds.

1. Make 4-5 envelopes, each opened by an answer from a source.
2. Teams get envelope 1.
3. Each answer gives the code to the next.
4. Final envelope asks the big question.
5. Debrief what each source added.

Adaptations: Use envelopes instead of locks; give hint cards.

1. Give each group a source.
2. Groups plan a frozen scene.
3. On 'freeze,' they hold it.
4. Class guesses what is happening.
5. Tap a frozen student to speak one line.

Adaptations: Allow a narrator for students who don't want to pose.

1. Post one source and question per chart.
2. Groups add ideas in their color.
3. Rotate every 3 minutes.
4. Read and check the last group's notes.
5. Return home and summarize.

Adaptations: Older kids: each round must build on the last.

1. Form inner and outer circles.
2. Partners face each other.
3. Discuss a prompt for 1 minute.
4. Outer circle moves one step.
5. Repeat with new prompts.

Adaptations: Lines work if space is tight.

1. Each student gets a source and studies the author.
2. Partner writes interview questions.
3. Interview in character for 3 minutes.
4. Switch roles.
5. Write what the author would say today about one question.

Adaptations: K-5: teacher interviews volunteers.

1. Pick a figure and give the student their source.
2. Class prepares questions.
3. Student answers in character.
4. Swap a new student in.
5. Exit ticket: was the figure convincing?

Adaptations: Let two students share the seat.

1. Give groups the cards.
2. Read each card quickly.
3. Rank strongest to weakest for the question.
4. Compare rankings with another group.
5. Defend your top card.

Adaptations: K-5: sort into two piles: helps / doesn't help.

1. Set up stations with a source and task.
2. Groups rotate on a timer.
3. Record evidence on a lab sheet.
4. Return and answer the big question.
5. Share one surprising source.

Adaptations: Shorten to 3 stations.

1. Assign roles.
2. Each side preps with the sources.
3. Openings, witnesses, closings.
4. Jury deliberates.
5. Compare verdict to the evidence.

Adaptations: Shorter: two lawyers and a class jury.

1. Students annotate sources ahead of time.
2. Sit in a circle.
3. Open with the big question.
4. Students lead; teacher only tracks.
5. Reflect: best point made by a classmate?

Adaptations: Fishbowl version for big classes.

1. Read the source.
2. Write a 6-word headline.
3. Post it on the wall.
4. Walk and star your favorite.
5. Discuss why the winner works.

Adaptations: K-5: draw a front page picture.

1. Pose a two-sided choice.
2. Students move to one side.
3. Pairs give one reason using the source.
4. Anyone may switch.
5. Close with the real historical choice.

Adaptations: Keep choices about the past.

1. Tape a source to big paper.
2. No talking: students write questions and replies.
3. Circle and connect ideas.
4. Read the whole sheet aloud.
5. Write one takeaway.

Adaptations: Digital version with a shared doc.

1. Ask the closing question.
2. Students pick an answer sign.
3. Line up at it with a reason.
4. Collect one reason per line.
5. Use it to plan tomorrow.

Adaptations: Use corners if one door.

1. Each group gets a source.
2. Write one observation in 1 minute.
3. Pass to the next group.
4. Repeat until each returns.
5. Read all notes; what was missed?

Adaptations: Images for younger kids.

1. Groups get 3-4 sources.
2. Pick a title for the exhibit.
3. Write a label for each source.
4. Set up exhibits.
5. Class tours and leaves feedback.

Adaptations: K-5: one source, drawn label.

1. Assign roles.
2. Prep with sources.
3. Run the meeting with a chair.
4. Vote.
5. Compare with history.

Adaptations: Smaller: 4 roles and an audience.

1. Make categories on the board.
2. Teams line up.
3. One runner places a card and returns.
4. Teams can challenge placements.
5. Discuss the biggest cause.

Adaptations: Walk, don't run, if space is tight.