Lesson Plan
Teaching with Oral History: Upper Elementary
Students utilize oral histories as a tool for learning about people, places, and events. As they explore a recorded oral history, they examine the nuances of conducting interviews and then practice their skills by interviewing one another.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Understand that oral history is a way of gathering detailed information that helps us understand a specific time, place, person, or event.
- Experience what it is like to participate in the interview process.
- Learn that successful interviews are a result of listening carefully and asking thoughtful questions.
- Understand that all of us have important stories to tell and perspectives to share.
Grade Levels
Upper Elementary | Grades 4‐5
Duration
1‐3 class periods
Related Programs
All
Essential Questions
- How do historians learn about the past?
- How can oral histories help us to understand the past?
- What makes an interview successful?
Materials
(see appendix)
- Object Photos
- Recording of Dora Heller Rich’s oral history (MP3)
- Copies of Dora Heller Rich’s Interview Transcript
- Interview Worksheet
- Story Worksheet
- Pencils
- Loose leaf paper or notebook
Vocabulary
- Historian
- Oral History
- Interview
Questions on lessons and activities?
The materials on this page can enrich a visit to the Museum or help you teach about immigration. If you have questions or comments, please e-mail us.
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