Primary vs. Secondary Sources

Front

What is a primary source?

Back

A primary source is an original document or firsthand account created at the time of an event. Examples include diaries, interviews, and official documents.

Front

What is a secondary source?

Back

A secondary source is a document or recording that relates or discusses information originally presented elsewhere. Examples include textbooks, articles analyzing primary sources, and documentaries.

Front

Identify the source type: The United States Constitution.

Back

PRIMARY

Front

Identify the source type: An interview with Alexander Graham Bell about how he invented the telephone.

Back

PRIMARY

Front

Identify the source type: A book describing Christopher Columbus sailing to America.

Back

SECONDARY

Front

Identify the source type: A YouTube video describing how the pyramids were built.

Back

SECONDARY

Front

Identify the source type: A short story describing Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla's 'electrical' battle.

Back

SECONDARY

Front

Why are primary sources important in research?

Back

Primary sources provide direct evidence and firsthand accounts, allowing researchers to get closer to the original events or ideas.

Front

Why are secondary sources useful?

Back

Secondary sources help to interpret, analyze, and summarize primary sources, providing context and additional insights.

Front

Give an example of a primary source related to World War II.

Back

A soldier's diary from World War II.