Using Artifacts to Spark Inquiry
Bruce Mize organized an archival project for social studies students at West Point High School in Columbus, Mississippi. The presentation reached 75 students.
Teaching and Learning with Primary Sources
Bruce Mize’s project utilized Korean War artifacts to introduce social studies students to the archival process. His goal was to spark inquiry and creative thinking by facilitating collaborative learning while exploring primary sources.
Students completed the United States National Archives Artifact Analysis Worksheet and a teacher-created, Artifact Illustration & Inquiry Form, to aid in identifying critical aspects of each artifact. After detailed artifact analysis, students used the Internet to locate additional information. Using the information gathered, students drew conclusions about the importance of their artifact.
