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Good morning everyone,

Found this gem thanks to Bernajean Porter … the Historical Scene Investigation Project (HSI) is more than a webquest, it’s a research-backed, scaffolded learning environment that uses the popular CBS TV show CSI: Crime Scene Investigation as a context for social studies lessons.

The site’s creators at the College of William and Mary and the University of Kentucky wanted to come up with a classroom resource that would, as closely as possible, mimic the work a real historical researcher might do. In the process, they’ve assembled a terrific website that forces students to examine evidence (often using primary source documents), evaluate quantitative data, understand historical contexts, form conclusions, and present their findings. Their four-step model includes the following easily-digestible parts:

• Becoming a Detective
• Investigating the Evidence
• Searching for Clues
• Cracking the Case

Each investigation includes a “Student View” with pleasing graphics and links to all the resources they will need. The “Teacher View” doesn’t provide an answer key but does link to state (Maryland & Virginia) and national standards as well as implementation ideas and guidance on how to lead the lesson. Creativity is key here as the students are often asked to write assuming the identity of someone from the period in question. It’s heady stuff but it’s extremely well designed. With the right class it would be a great way to introduce “realistic” historical research while immersing kids in rich content and teaching writing skills.
Hope this helps!

-kj-