Primary and Secondary Sources

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What is a Primary Source?

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A Primary Source is an original document or firsthand account created at the time of an event. Examples include diaries, photographs, and original research.

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What is a Secondary Source?

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A Secondary Source is a document or recording that relates or discusses information originally presented elsewhere. Examples include biographies, textbooks, and articles analyzing primary sources.

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Is a biography of Benjamin Franklin a Primary or Secondary Source?

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Secondary Source.

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Is a history textbook a Primary or Secondary Source?

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Secondary Source.

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Is a theater play about the Revolutionary War a Primary or Secondary Source?

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Secondary Source.

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What is an Autobiography?

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An Autobiography is a book that someone wrote about their own life.

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Is a journal of science notes written by Charles Darwin a Primary or Secondary Source?

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Primary Source.

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Give an example of a Primary Source.

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Examples of Primary Sources include letters, speeches, and original research articles.

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Give an example of a Secondary Source.

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Examples of Secondary Sources include reviews, critiques, and historical analyses.

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What is the main difference between Primary and Secondary Sources?

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The main difference is that Primary Sources are original materials, while Secondary Sources interpret or analyze those materials.