Pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey

[Let me start by saying that no animals were injured during this exercise.]

When I want to review the differences/similarities between primary and secondary sources, but have little time to do so, I rely on the students's knowledge. Many students already have a basic understanding of primary and secondary sources. I use a pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey exercise so that the students can show off their knowledge and learn from each other.  How?

Ingredients:

• two flip charts (or black/white boards, a wall will do too)
• tape
• large slips of paper

Method:
Prep time: 15 mins

1. Label one board "Primary" and the other board "Secondary"
2. In large letters, print a type of source on each slip of paper. The number of slips/sources is completely up to you. I like to include one or two tricky sources that can be discussed later

Exercise: 5-7 mins

1. Distribute the slips of paper randomly. I often divide the students into groups
2. Ask each group to discuss and collectively decide which source(s) they have, primary or secondary
3. Ask each group to tape their slip of paper on the appropriate board
4. Open the discussion to the larger group, talking about any tricky sources or other decisions of note

You will be amazed how often the students get their choices correct--even the tricky ones. This exercise puts the students in the right frame of mind while engaging them in active learning.