Build stronger historical readers with the Primary Source Analysis Toolkit, a free, reusable classroom resource from Teach Between the Lines.
Designed to move students beyond simply summarizing a document, this toolkit provides a clear progression through three levels of historical thinking:
Foundation — Identify the source, purpose, audience, context, evidence, perspective, and historical significance.
Analysis — Examine claims, historical situation, perspective, limitations, and corroborating evidence.
DBQ — Apply document analysis to historical argumentation, sourcing, contextualization, evidence, and complexity.
The toolkit also includes a concise Teacher Quick Guide and DBQ Skills Reference, making it easy to use with individual primary sources, document sets, discussion activities, writing preparation, or ongoing historical-thinking practice.
Because the analysis tools are not tied to a particular era or topic, teachers can use them across U.S. History, World History, Honors, and AP U.S. History courses.
Included:
Teacher Quick Guide
Level 1: Quick Primary Source Analysis
Level 2: Historical Source Analysis
Level 3: AP-Style Document Analysis
DBQ Skills Reference
Printable, reusable student pages
Grades: 9–12
Historical literacy. Critical reading. Thoughtful teaching.