Awesome CSI Activities and Inquiry in History Class

Getting students to think critically, carefully analyze primary and secondary sources, and gather evidence to answer a prompt can sometimes be like pulling teeth, but CSI activities get students doing all these with enthusiasm!

In this episode, Dan and Caitlin break down why inquiry is such a powerful teaching modality for history classrooms. And one of the coolest and most engaging ways to implement an inquiry lesson is with CSIs- Crime Scene Investigations!

From the basics of just using 'crime scene' yellow tape in the room with a couple of simple artifacts, and playing pink panther or X-File music, to going a little over the top by outlining body outlines on the floor, providing magnifying glasses,  and having students create detective names, Dan and Caitlin share how to create a lesson students will never forget!

All CSIs and inquiry lessons need to start with a great question - but make sure to keep it simple and then of course, they need great sources for students to analyze. But getting students really interested, really curious, and super engaged sometimes takes us to bring a little magic and pageantry into the room.

In the episode, Dan shares a few lessons you can find with History's Mysteries  (though they are pricer than he recalled- starting at $29.95). There are others on Teachers Pay Teachers for cheaper and you can purchase Caitlin's Boston Massacre lesson on our website! 

Please let us know if you have questions by hitting us up on social media or emailing us through our site. 

Happy Teaching!