Instruction
Assignment
Write a 2 page, double spaced essay based on two primary sources from the library available at
teachingamericanhistory.com
Preparation
Step 1: Search for that person or topic on teachingamericanhistory.com. A variety of high
quality primary resources will be available to you on this website. Additionally, feel free to
utilize primary resources we have covered in class.
Step 2: Select two primary resources that relate to one another. Read the documents carefully.
Analyze the sources within the context of time and place.
Writing The Paper
Create a strong thesis statement, and then support the thesis using the two sources. Be sure that
background, secondary information is only used to understand the meaning of the primary
sources. The evidence used to support the thesis must come from the primary sources.
• Read and analyze the sources.
• Be sure to include a thesis statement at the end of the first paragraph, and then support the
thesis with explanation and evidence in supporting paragraphs. The essay must be based
on the primary sources.
o Intro – Provide an intro to the sources (historical context of…) For example, who
wrote what, when, where, and why? Thesis statement should appear at the end of
the introductory paragraph.
o Supporting paragraphs: One paragraph = one point
▪ Explain why the particular source supports your thesis, using your own
words. Then use direct quotations from the source to support your
Assignment Guide
argument. Note that quotations might require you to explain their meaning
since it might not be obvious to a reader in the 21st century.
• Be specific rather than vague. Who did or said what, when, where, how, why?
• Be sure to use quotation marks when using another’s words.