Decoding the Past

Inquiry-Based Lessons in U.S. History Volume 1

By: Jana Kirchner, Andrew McMichael

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eText | 19 June 2026 | Edition Number 2

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Published: 3rd September 2021

Published: 20th May 2026

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Inquiry-Based Lessons in U.S. History: Decoding the Past Volume 1 provides engaging, adaptable primary source lessons that focus on teaching U.S. history through inquiry to middle school students.

Covering key chronological periods from the Age of Exploration to Reconstruction, Volume I aligns with the scope and sequence of major social studies textbooks and is linked to the National Council for History in the Schools (NCHS) U.S. History Content Standards. Each chapter provides a short historical background and three inquiry-based lesson plans that feature a question and primary source evidence. Students will analyze sources including photographs, speeches, political cartoons, maps, paintings, letters, and diary entries to answer the lesson question.

This updated edition features new lessons, new primary sources, new activities, and strategies for integrating artificial intelligence into the classroom to enhance student engagement and understanding. Additional "Ready for Monday" lesson resources are available for download on resourcecentre.routledge.com/books/9781041045458..

This book is a must-have for middle school teachers, curriculum developers, and homeschool educators seeking ready-to-use lessons that can be seamlessly incorporated into curricula to inspire a deeper connection to U.S. history in grades 5-8. These lessons are easily adaptable for high school students as well.