Free Digital History Notebook (For introducing historical skills)

Consider using digital journals

A few years ago I switched from paper journals to an online History Notebook. I developed a journal system that investigates the "Hidden Histories" of people that are rarely mentioned in the textbook or marginalized in society. 

The “Hidden History Journal” allows students to practice the new skills they have learned, uncover “histories” (narratives) that are marginalized or forgotten (women, the poor, children, enslaved people, religious and ethic minorities, and conquered people). Students will also be asked questions that relate to their own life and lived experience, thus legitimizing the learner and sustaining motivation. 

Click the image below for a link to a free Hidden History Journal Google Document. I start the year off with this Journal and have students complete a little at a time. You can make a copy of the document (go to "File" and then "Make a copy") so you can tailor it to your class's needs. If your students do not have access to technology, you can print the document or you can post on the board or projector and they write down the answer on paper. This would be suitable for all history classes: grades 6-12.