5. How do historical records fit into the classroom?

Historical records are interdisciplinary and can be used effectively in social studies classes and across the curriculum. They can be used to enhance skill development and teach core subjects:  

• as a motivational exercise at the beginning of a lesson.
• as an evaluative exercise at the beginning or end of a lesson.
• as an addition to a lesson to make a point clear.
• as the focus of an entire lesson or unit.

Historical records provide a vital, engaging way to integrate learning-centered activities. They provide an ideal vehicle for encouraging community collaborations and parental participation. From a student’s own community, historical records can make state and national history more understandable and illustrate the impact of state and national events on real people.

Historical records are stimulating for teachers, educationally sound for students, and support state and national education standards and goals.

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