Choose a topic of interest and search it on the Internet. Cross reference all search engines and find all websites which discuss the topic. Like a research paper, students will have to narrow and broaden accordingly. The student will then produce an annotated bibliography on the topic, based solely on internet references. Everyone becomes an historical figure for a day.
Students research the person, time-period, culture, etc.
They give an oral presentation in class and answer questions. Similar to the above, students adopt a persona and write letters or journal entries that person might have written. The level of research required to complete the assignment can range from minimal to a depth appropriate for advanced classes. The assignment can be limited to one or two articles, or it can be more extensive. This is a good exercise in critical reading and in summarizing.