observe
What do you notice first in the document? What do you see that was unexpected? What do you notice that you can’t explain? What else stands out in this document? Consider word choices, formatting, and the like as part of your observations
Reflect
Why do you think this was written and presented the way it is? What historically speaking influenced the creation of these excerpts? Are these excerpts essential or not? What did Roosevelt seek to address, and why? Would Roosevelt’s message in these excerpts appeal to people in Texas? Why or why not? Did Roosevelt’s action affect Texas politics? How or how not? What is the more significant connection between these excerpts and Texas history? How do they intersect?
Question
What do you wonder about? What more do you want to know, and how can you find out (don’t just say, “I can look it up.” Be more specific than that)? What seems to be missing? What additional questions come to mind about this source? Consider the who, what, why, when, where, and how surrounding this document as you provide a more profound questioning and analysis of the material. As you approach this portion of the assignment, referring to the Critical Thinking handout in the Handouts and Other Useful Items module may be helpful.
Conclusions
What conclusions can you make about this document and its influence on Texas? How does it fit in the overall historical context regarding Texas? What is your take on the messaging of these excerpts? If you were in Texas, how would you respond to these items? Are they reasonable or not? Why?