Using Primary Documents to Foster Historical Thinking Skills in a Secondary English As a Foreign Language Classroom

Abstract

In order to explore the benefits of primary sources in the classroom, this study evaluates lessons within a unit in which the primary method of content delivery is made through the use of primary source documents to English language learners. To better understand the use of primary sources in fostering historical thinking skills in high school students learning English as a Foreign Language, this case study assesses student research and performance using the model of the National History Day Project. This project provides a curriculum model centered on the use of primary sources to guide student research and understanding of a topic.