Lesson Plan
Teaching with Primary Sources: Lower 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 postcard, a ship manifest, a naturalization certificate, and a report card in search of clues that will help them understand parts of Victoria’s experience as an immigrant in the United States.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Understand that primary source documents can help us understand people, places, and events from the past.
- Examine primary source documents in search of clues to help them understand a person from the past.
- Use evidence to make predictions.
Grade Levels
Lower Elementary School | Grades 1-3
Duration
1‐3 class periods
Related Program
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)
- Primary Source Guide
- Primary Source Packet
- Telling Victoria’s Story Worksheet
- Pencils
- Crayons or markers
Vocabulary
- Primary source
- Ship manifest
- Immigrant
- Tenement
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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