Analyzing Photos & Posters

This module focuses on two visual forms of primary sources: photographs and posters. Photos can record major events or share personal stories; they can be staged and formal or candid and casual. The range of photos is part of what makes them a versatile source for the classroom. Posters, on the other hand, are printed for either commercial or government purposes. They are generally used for advertising a product or event or for encouraging political environment. If photos often tell stories of individuals, posters can give us a glimpse into the environments where these individuals lived.

At the completion of this Module, you will be able to:

• Identify and navigate online resources to find primary sources.
• Evaluate the benefits of using primary sources in the classroom.
• Develop critical thinking skills.
• Analyze primary sources by using the Scan Examine Analyze (SEA) method and NARA worksheets.
• Describe uses of primary sources in the classroom.
• Apply a selection process to choose appropriate primary sources for the classroom.
• Develop a lesson plan for students who are using online primary sources.
• Examine methods of teaching critical thinking skills to students who are using primary sources.
• Organize a local history project incorporating techniques learned from the course.
• Collaborate with other participants to develop and improve classroom activities.

Module Four Activity Checklist

Open the Learning Activity Checklist (pdf).

The Checklist can be saved to your local drive by clicking Save on the toolbar. As you complete Module Assignments, check them off on this electronic copy. Alternatively, you can print a copy to complete.