Elementary Inquiry Kits

Explore this collection of ten inquiry kits that lets elementary students study historical topics that interest them. Each kit has primary and secondary sources to analyze. From the Spanish conquest of Mexico to the invention of the braille reading and writing system, the inquiry kits examine social studies themes and align with Maryland curriculum units.

Select a unit below to find related topics as well as primary and secondary sources to develop a classroom research project.

Funded by a grant from the Library of Congress, Maryland Humanities and MPT developed the Teaching with Primary Sources Inquiry Kits and Research Learning Modules to support K-12 educators and students.

The MSDE Social Studies Department is committed to providing materials and professional development to teachers to assist them in teaching primary source analysis and in providing authentic, project-based assessments to students.