Primary and Secondary Sources

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What is a primary source?

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A primary source is a direct or firsthand piece of evidence from the time period being studied, such as letters, photographs, or official documents.

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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, such as textbooks, articles, or documentaries.

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Is a newspaper article from 2005 about an event a primary source?

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No, it is a secondary source because it discusses an event that happened earlier.

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What is an example of a primary source?

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The Declaration of Independence is a primary source because it is an original document from the time it was created.

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What is an example of a secondary source?

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A movie about George Washington's life is a secondary source because it interprets and presents information about him.

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If Adam witnessed an event and tells someone about it, what is he considered?

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Adam is considered a primary source because he directly experienced the event.

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What type of source is a biography?

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A biography is a secondary source because it is written about someone else's life.

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Is a diary a primary or secondary source?

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A diary is a primary source because it contains personal reflections and experiences from the writer.

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What type of source is a textbook?

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A textbook is a secondary source because it summarizes and interprets information from primary sources.

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Is a documentary film a primary or secondary source?

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A documentary film is usually a secondary source because it presents information based on primary sources.