Drafting the Declaration: the Jefferson Desk and the Declaration of Independence
Preliminary Activity: Introduction to Doing History with Objects
If your students are new to thinking about objects and material culture, consider having them begin with this review of the Guide to Doing History with Objects. Then explore the activities to the left for ideas on how to use this site in the classroom.
- Ask students of consider an object that has been handed down from one person to another in their family. How is this object a part of their personal and family history? Take a few minutes to share and discuss some answers.
- Assign students to computers, and direct them to the Guide to Doing History with Objects essay. Ask them to read the essay, and to note at the end of each section how their family's object reveals the kinds of historical perspectives that Lubar and Kendrick discuss.
- Bring students back together for a plenary discussion of their reflections.
