Primary vs Secondary Sources

Primary vs Secondary Sources

Primary Source:

A primary source is a document or physical object which was written or created during the time under study. These sources were present during an experience or time period and offer an inside view of a particular event.

Some types of primary sources include: ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS (excerpts or translations acceptable): Diaries, speeches, manuscripts, letters, interviews, news film footage, autobiographies, official records CREATIVE WORKS: Poetry, drama, novels, music, art RELICS OR ARTIFACTS: Pottery, furniture, clothing, buildings

Secondary Source:

What is a secondary source? A secondary source interprets and analyzes primary sources. These sources are one or more steps removed from the event. Secondary sources may have pictures, quotes or graphics of primary sources in them.

Some types of secondary sources include: PUBLICATIONS: Textbooks, magazine articles, histories, criticisms, commentaries, encyclopedias

Activity:

Watch the video "Primary and Secondary Sources" as Explained by Common Craft

Directions:

• Write a definition for 'Primary Source'
• Write a definition for 'Secondary Source'
• Provide an example of a 'Primary Source'
• Provide an example of a 'Secondary Source'
• What did the video explain well?
• What questions do you still have about primary and secondary sources?