Primary and Secondary Source Worksheet
Primary and Secondary Sources introduces students to the different types of sources historians use to investigate the past. The worksheet helps students understand the difference between primary and secondary sources and explains why this distinction matters when studying history. Students learn that historical knowledge is built using evidence created at different times and from different perspectives.
Using a mix of contemporary examples and a focused case study on the storming of the Bastille (1789), students practise identifying, classifying, and explaining sources. Activities guide students to think about who created a source, when it was created, and how it can be used as historical evidence. This supports students in developing key inquiry skills while building confidence in historical reasoning.
This worksheet focuses on using sources as evidence and understanding the meaning and context of sources, providing an essential foundation before deeper studies of the ancient past and historical investigations.
Benefits for students
Develops a clear understanding of primary and secondary sources
Builds skills in classifying and interpreting historical evidence
Encourages students to think about context, perspective, and reliability
Supports structured written responses using historical language
Reinforces inquiry skills through real historical examples
Why teachers choose this worksheet
Simple, ready-to-use resource with minimal preparation required
Clear structure supports whole-class, small-group, or independent work
Directly aligned to HI4-INQ-01 (NSW Curriculum)
Works effectively alongside introductory archaeology and evidence lessons
Includes a teacher answer sheet for easy checking
What’s included
Student worksheet: Primary and Secondary Sources
Clear definitions and examples of primary and secondary sources
Source classification task using the storming of the Bastille
Written explanation and drawing/paste activities
Teacher Answer Sheet
Primary and Secondary Sources provides a practical, classroom-ready way for students to develop essential source analysis skills and begin thinking like historians when working with historical evidence.
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Resource Information
| Description: | Student activities include critical thinking, drawing, explaining and determining if a source is a primary or secondary source. |
| Estimated lessons: | 1-2. |
| Ages | 11-14 years. |
| Format | PDF. |
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