The analysis of primary sources is an excellent way for students to learn history through the words of those who experienced it. Upon analyzing varying perspectives, students themselves can construct their own meaning of history based on their own interpretations of what they read. In addition, students can make connections from the past to the present to better understand the changes that have occurred throughout history and why our society functions the way it does.

I also believe that history cannot effectively be taught without the incorporation of the arts (visual, music, literature). Art is history. Each work is a positive or negative response by the artist to the political, economic, and social aspects of the times. At other times, it is government directed through the use of propaganda. Art also promotes the culture of the various people within the worlds past and present.

Regardless of the activities we do in class, I firmly believe that writing should be the cornerstone of the curriculum. Writing is such a valuable tool no matter what field our students wish to pursue in the future. Essays and journals are an excellent means of discovering our own thoughts and opinions. These forms of writing allow students to formulate and organize their ideas, think critically, make judgements, take positions, and evaluate events and movements in history.