The past helps to inform the present and the future—that's why the study of history is so important. The handout describes what historians do and why their jobs are meaningful. Readers learn about what to expect in a college-level history course, including typical writing assignments.

Concepts

historians, college preparation, primary sources, secondary sources

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Additional Tags

english language arts

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Instructional Ideas

• Ask learners to generate lists of examples of primary and secondary sources
• Have scholars engage in a free-writing activity based on a history topic, then ask volunteers to share

Classroom Considerations

• Requires Internet access unless teachers print the handout in advance

Pros

• Provides a wealth of reputable information 
• Includes links to additional handouts
• Written in an engaging, conversational style

Cons

• None