Double, Double, Toil and Trouble: The Salem Witch Trials (American History)
In this class, we will take a look at cultural and societal environment of Salem Town and Salem Village - as well as the history of witch trials - to discover what transpired to cause the witch hunts in the 17th-century American colonies.
Angela Kennedy, B.A., M.A.
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(97)
What's included
1 live meeting
1 hrs 15 mins in-class hoursAssessment
I will send an informal evaluation of the student’s comprehension and participation.Class Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
Was Salem really infested with witches, or was the hysteria caused by something more mundane? We’re going to look at the historical sources, the background of the colonies and their inhabitants, along with the terror caused by their fears, jealousy, and prejudices. We will use primary and secondary academic sources (journal articles and books). No 3rd party accounts are necessary for the students. I will create and use slides to show illustrations and maps to explain how geography affected the witch hunts. The class is lecture-based, but I encourage students to input their thoughts and ideas with me and other students. I believe education is a conversation and discussion helps them think critically, and retain the material. No previous knowledge is necessary.
Learning Goals
Students will learn how to compare sources and determine historical criteria to find the most accurate portrayal of events. They will learn how group mindset can be dangerous and also responsible for oppression of marginalized people. They will leave the class understanding the historical events of the 17th-century witch hunts in Salem, Massachusetts.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Given that history often has sensitive topics and themes, I am extremely aware of my students’ comfort levels and strive to make certain they are, at all times, safe and mentally prepared for the material. This particular subject has themes of Puritanical religion, witchcraft, greed, violence, and death. I have taught this class to students at varying levels of maturity (ages 11 - 24), and am well-versed at keeping it age/maturity-appropriate.
Supply List
Handouts provided.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined June, 2022
5.0
97reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
3 Degrees
Master's Degree in History from University of South Florida
Bachelor's Degree in Foreign Language from University of Southern Mississippi
Bachelor's Degree in History from University of Southern Mississippi
I have taught/tutored this as a singular class and as part of US History (200 level), and included it in European history classes, as well. Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$20
per classMeets once
75 min
Completed by 30 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-15
1-5 learners per class
