The author of the article draws attention to the importance of studying historical events through the prism of biographies of historical figures with the involvement of memorial plaques. A variant of using memorial plaques as a historical source in the study of history at school on the example of Lenin’s activities is proposed. On the basis of the historical and cultural standard a possible list of memorial plaques that the teacher can involve in the organisation of students’ activities to study the events of the history of Russia in the late XIX — early XX century at school, associated with the activities of Lenin is proposed. It is concluded that plaques are a promising historical source for studying the life and activities of historical figures in school history lessons. When analysing plaques, students learn to think critically, analyse them as a historical source. Memorial plaques contribute to the development of students’ interest and respect for the past of their country, awareness of the importance of memorialisation of historical events and figures.

Keywords: teaching methodology, history, historical source, memorial plaques, V. I. Lenin.