Gary Shiffman

Jonathan Bassett and Gary Shiffman, co-founders of the Four Question Method for history instruction, discuss innovative ways to teach history. They emphasize the importance of storytelling in understanding historical events. Bassett shares insights on the first question, 'What happened?', while Shiffman dives into the second question, 'What were they thinking?', fostering empathy in students. The duo also explains how context and comparative cases deepen understanding and judgment in history, ultimately advocating for a narrative-first approach to engage students.

In this captivating discussion, Jon Bassett and Gary Shiffman, former social studies teachers and co-founders of the Four Question Method, delve into innovative ways to teach history. They champion the 'Story First' approach, highlighting how narratives make learning engaging. The duo breaks down their method into four key questions that encourage critical thinking. From analyzing perspectives of historical figures to understanding the context of events, they argue that storytelling is essential for grasping history. Their practical insights can transform how educators connect students with the past.