PSSA English Language Arts (ELA) – Grade 7 Practice Test

A primary source is defined as an original document or firsthand account that provides direct evidence or immediate data related to a particular topic, event, or period. Examples of primary sources include diaries, letters, photographs, speeches, or original research data. These materials are created by individuals who experienced or witnessed an event, allowing them to offer unique insights and unmediated accounts of their experiences. In contrast, summaries of various researchers' opinions, interpretations of an event, or secondary analyses do not present firsthand information. Instead, they interpret, summarize, or analyze primary sources or other secondary sources, making them separate from firsthand accounts. Recognizing the distinction between primary and secondary sources is crucial for understanding the authenticity and context of information, which is why identifying primary sources is fundamental in research and analysis.