I always require my students to annotate any complex text that we read. I usually give them a task depending on the reading. This annotation guide was used for the DBQ on Valley Forge. If you click the image below it will take you to an Editable Google Doc so you can tailor it to your class' needs. 

The purpose of this lesson is to show that the Renaissance covered a big period in European history and the concept is used to characterize the artistic and architectural advances of a select echelon of society and did not necessarily affect everyone across Europe in an equal manner. While, the purpose is not to underscore the accomplishments of the Renaissance (it is encouraged to teach the artistic advances and human accomplishment) but rather show a more complete picture of what life was like in Europe for all people not just the elite. Students will practice their close reading strategies as well as analysis strategies by answering the question: Is the “Renaissance” a Mischaracterization of an Age?

Students read five secondary sources, answer 10 comprehension questions, a handout how to quote, summarize, paraphrase and analyze historical evidence, an essay outline/planner (for students who need additional supports) and a rubric to help guide student's writing. 

Click the image below to get the PDF. 

I love teaching about the Columbian Exchange. Students are fascinated about how different foods, animals and diseases developed differently in the "Old" and "New World." In this lesson student examine the IMPACT of the Columbian Exchange on the "New" and "Old World" by examining secondary sources. Students will then practice searching for credible sources online that would explain the IMPACT of exchanging animals, diseases, plants and technology. My favorite part is when students find a recipe (I challenge them to ask a Grandparent or relative for a family recipe- I have kids calling their abuelitas in Mexico who they haven't talked to in ages!) and then they create a "Cooking Show" or "Cookbook" that shows other students how to make the recipe with historical details about that particular food time (Example: The potato comes from the "New World" and there are thousands of varieties of potatoes). Sometimes students will even bring a sample for other students to try (I got the Principal permission first!).

Click the image below for the lesson plan and students activities. 

The study of history is really an investigation into the past. For this activity students investigate why the senators of Rome murdered Julius Caesar by examining primary sources. Students examine five primary sources and try to determine the Senator' motives. Students will answer some comprehension questions and formulate a thesis and write a historical essay. Click the Image below to download this free resource.

No prep, No hassle. Students will critically analyze the past with this engaging DBQ. 

Every year, my school site hosts a school wide Project Based Learning Event called "Symposium." This year as GATE coordinator I have put my own spin on the project and developed Curriculum for our students. I developed a six week project for our students, and they will showcase their final work at a "Community Night" and present to their families and people from our community. 

Feel free to use this resource at your school site and modify to suit your student's needs. This curriculum is intended for Advanced Learners but all students are capable of completing the project with enough support and guidance. This Curriculum is also suitable for Grade 6-12. 

(Click the image above to download the Free PDF) 
Developed by Dr. Caldwell 2018-2019 

Below are screen shots of some of the Booklets Pages (All activities are included in the Free resource above)