Prehistoric Times: How to study the past Mrs. Johnson and Mrs. Agosta
1. Scientists Discover Clues A. Prehistory is the time before writing, ~5,000 years ago. B. Archaeologists sift through dirt to find artifacts or objects made by people like tools or jewelry.
C. Anthropologists study culture, or people’s way of life. D. Paleontologists study fossils – evidence of early life preserved in rocks.
2. Primary vs. Secondary Sources A. A primary source is a document or physical object which was written or created during the time under study.
Examples of Primary Sources ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS: Diaries, speeches, manu- scripts, letters, interviews, news film footage, auto- biographies, official records ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS: Diaries, speeches, manu- scripts, letters, interviews, news film footage, auto- biographies, official records CREATIVE WORKS: Poetry, drama, novels, music, art CREATIVE WORKS: Poetry, drama, novels, music, art RELICS OR ARTIFACTS: Pottery, furniture, clothing, buildings
B. A secondary source interprets and analyzes primary sources. C. These sources are one or more steps removed from the event.
Examples of Secondary Sources PUBLICATIONS: Textbooks, magazine articles, histories, journals, commentaries, textbooks, books, newspapers, and encyclopedias.