Lesson Plan
Teaching with Primary Sources: Upper Elementary
Students use primary source documents to piece together the story of Victoria Confino, an immigrant who lived in 97 Orchard Street almost one hundred years ago. Students examine a variety of primary sources in order to explore Victoria’s immigrant experience. They use their findings to write a biography of her life. Through this investigation, students learn how primary source documents can help us understand people, places, and events from the past.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Understand that primary source documents can help us understand people, places, and events from the past.
- Examine and analyze primary source documents in order to learn about a person from the past.
- Learn how to compile research in order to get a more complete understanding of the past.
Grade Levels
Upper Elementary | Grades 4-5
Duration
1‐3 class periods
Related Programs
All, Uses content from Meet Victoria
Essential Questions
- How do historians learn about the past?
- How can primary source documents help us to understand the past?
Materials
(see appendix)
- Confino Family Portrait
- Primary Source Guide
- Primary Source Packet
- Pencils
Vocabulary
- Primary source
- Census
- Immigrant
- Naturalization
- Ship manifest
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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