Our Study of History…Goal: individual time, group time & share time.

History is a study of the past. It is a way of making sense of the world and an academic discipline. History is a combination of facts and interpretations of facts. It is also an ongoing argument that changes as new evidence is uncovered and that is the most exciting thing of all, because it means that history is very much alive.

A.

What’s your definition of history? What is

history?

(Prepare to share your answer)

The record of past events and times, especially in connection with the human race.

Why do we study history?For memory is a blessing, it

creates bonds rather than destroys them. Bonds between individuals and groups. (builds relationships)

It is because I remember our common beginnings that I move closer to my fellow human beings. It is because I refuse to forget that their future is as important as my own.(gives us empathy/compassion for others)

What would the future be if it were devoid of memory?

Elie Wiesel-Holocaust survivor

B.Why do we study history?

What’s the point?

What are the benefits of studying the past today?

(share your answer)

Before we tackle question C. Let’s look at the following

definitions:• Perspective: ones own view on

situations. They see things their way.

• Bias: a slant of the truth, favoritism, a one sided view of things.

A preformed judgment.

C.

How do perspective (ones own

view) and bias (one sided view)

influence your/our study of history?

(Prepare to share you answer)

Discuss- Skepticism• doubt or unbelief, it is not being sure.

• A person is a skeptic when they just can't believe it is so. 'I doubt that they landed on the moon.' They say it is going to rain but, I doubt it.

• Share- What event(s) in history are you skeptical of? Why?

D.Keeping your last answer in mind,

what’s important to remember as we go about our study of history? How can

we study history with the most accuracy? What sources should you use? Primary, secondary? Diaries,

journals? History textbooks? (Prepare to share you answer)

Please get out a piece of your own paper! NOW!

Create a primary source document of your life.

Briefly write YOUR own history:

Free write quietly 2 minutes GO!• Where were you born?• Where have you lived?

• Family life?• What schools have you attended?

• What major events, achievements have impacted your life?

Please respect the quiet time of others!

Requirements for word doc DUE: Title: Why Study History? Or

It’s Important to Study History!

• paper can be horizontal or vertical.

•Your definition of history in at least 2 complete sentences. •Answer the question in a paragraph 4-5 complete sentences. USE YOUR NOTES! Why should you study history?•Add a “quote about history”, include author/date when available. You may search online.•Include an illustration; visual representation. A symbol that reminds you of meaning of the quote. You may partially use an on line symbol and add your own creativity also.