C-SPAN: Letters from the Presidents
Details
Main Website:
Activity Website:
Tech Product/Equipment:
Computer and projector, Mobile devices for students
Activity Description
Students examine historical letters written by U.S. presidents to gain insight into their character, leadership style, and historical legacy. Through close reading, analysis, discussion, and writing, students learn how primary sources can help historians better understand important historical figures and events.
Preparation
- Make sure that the site is not blocked at your school and that the documents can be viewed.
- View a letter about a president by selecting a president in the Pick a President dropdown menu at the top of the page. You will find the link to the letter under the president’s picture.
- Prepare a link on your computers or the class website so students can easily access the site.
Teacher Tips
- Preview several letters before class and identify options with accessible reading levels.
- Assign different presidents to small groups to ensure a variety of perspectives.
- Model analysis of one letter before students work independently.
- Encourage students to focus on evidence from the letter rather than prior knowledge about the president.
- Remind students that letters provide only one perspective and should be considered within their historical context.
More Ways
Write a response to this letter as if you were the person to whom it is addressed. Remember to consider your relationship to the president and the time period during which this letter was written.
Program Areas
- ASE: High School Diploma
