How to Interpret an Object

Imagine this object in use. Who would be using it? What other objects would be there? Draw or describe its environment below. 

1.  What is the object made of?

2. Describe or sketch any distinguishing
   marks, writing, or other clues that might help
   determine how the object was used?

3. Describe how it might have been used.

4. How was this object made? Why was it
   made this way?

5. What does the object say about the
   life, times, and technology of the people
   who used it?

6. Is there anything that has replaced
   this object today? How
   and why is it different?

What is the most important historical information this source provides? Be sure to cite specific evidence from the source.

Source: Adapted from the Maryland Historical Society 

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Primary Sources Overview

Using Primary Sources in the Classroom

Types of Resources

Reading a Primary Source

Reading Secondary Source

Evaluating an Interpretation

Primary Source Lessons (4)

Reference Source for Lesson Plans

Primary vs Secondary Sources: A Comparison

How to Interpret a document

How to Interpret a Map

How to interpret an object

Primary Source Websites

Primary Source Websites for Teachers

Download How to Interpret an Object in Word Document format.