Decoding the Text: Dred Scott Case

An important part of studying history is being able to read and decode historical texts.  In our classrooms, we often have students practice the following historical skills when reading a primary source: 

• Sourcing 
• Purpose and Perspective
• Cause and Effect
• Change and Continuity 

This activity has students read and analyze two sources: The Dred Scott Ruling and Lincoln's response to the ruling. Once students have annotated, summarized, and answered questions about the document, they take a quiz on the material.  This quiz is designed to reflect PSAT higher order thinking questions.

Includes: 

• “Decoding the Text” worksheet with annotating and historical skills directions 
• Teacher Answer Key 
• Quiz Covering Key Concepts 
• Decoding Task Cards for collaborative annotations

Contact: Please reach out if you have any questions at abushistory@gmail.com

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