Small and large group sharing of findings, as well as problem-solving activities, are important ongoing processes during the life of the project. Teacher introduces project to students. Student groups are formed and core historical themes and topics are chosen within each group. Students begin to brainstorm their questions for investigation as they engage in model primary source analysis activities. Students begin their exploration of the American Memory collections, learning how to search the collections and find potential sources for their projects.
Students refine their investigation questions.
Students develop a work plan for their project. Students develop preliminary bibliographies for their projects. Project-specific storyboards, outlines or other structural frameworks for the final project are done in first draft form. Groups refine their projects incorporating peer and teacher critiques. Students assume historical roles in preparation for group presentations.