Document-Based Assessment for U.S. History is a new way to engage middle school students in our nation's past. 20 questions set the tone, illuminating the central problems we have faced as a country:
• What Caused the American Revolution?
• How Did Slavery Lead to the Civil War?
• Should Further Immigration to the United States Be Restricted?
• How Has American Society Changed Since 1980?
• ...and 16 more.

Each question is then followed by a series of excerpts from historical documents that frame the question, or provoke critical thinking. Students use these excerpts to answer questions that begin to address the larger issues at hand.

As a result, students come to understand how analyzing documents can help in drawing one's own conclusions. At the same time, Document-Based Assessment for U.S. History is an excellent supplement to year-long programs in U.S. history.