The History of Witch Hunts and Trials: Including, the Salem Witch Trials
In this five-part course, students will learn about the witch hunts and trials not only in Europe but also in Salem, Massachusetts.
Melanie Wiancko
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4.9
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What's included
5 live meetings
4 hrs 10 mins in-class hoursAssessment
If requested by a student's parent or guardian, I can provide written feedback on their child's participation throughout the course.Class Experience
US Grade 6 - 9
** New to Outschool? Use code MelanieWia2020 to save $20! ** Witch hunts and trials have captured our attention for centuries! In this course, we will uncover the history behind the witch hunts, trials, and executions. We will answer important questions such as: Who was targeted in the witch hunts? What methods did they use to test these 'accused' witches? What lasting impacts did these events have on history? Throughout our time together we will look at what occurred in Europe and in Salem, Massachusetts. As a history teacher, I love all the details of understanding how major events such as this one impacted people personally, so we will be looking at individuals who were put on trial. In each class, students will be guided by a slideshow presentation with images, videos, and discussion questions. Students are encouraged to participate and critically analyze these events. Please see the Syllabus tab for a breakdown of what we will be covering each week in this course.
Learning Goals
Students will learn about the historical background behind the witch hunts and trials.
Students will be encouraged to critically think through these historical events and try to understand why they happened.
Syllabus
5 Lessons
over 5 WeeksLesson 1:
History of Witch Hunts
A look at what caused the frenzy of suspicion in Europe, including the impact of the Black Death. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Witch Trials Proceedings
Understanding how these hunts were conducted, how the trials proceeded, and how the accused were treated. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Salem Witch Trials Part 1
A close examination of what led to tensions in Salem Village, Massachusetts, and how the local people got wrapped up in the witch hunts. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Salem Witch Trials Part 2
A reflection on those accused in Salem, their legacy, and the lasting impacts on the community. 50 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Due to the nature of the subject, we will be covering more mature topics including the practice of witchcraft, treatment of accused witches (including tests performed), and executions. No graphic images or videos will be used in this course. If you have any concerns about particular content taught in this course, please do not hesitate to reach out.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
- The Witches: Suspicion, Betrayal, and Hysteria in 1692 Salem - by Stacy Schiff
- https://salemwitchmuseum.com/
- "A Timeline of Witch Hunts in Europe" - https://www.thoughtco.com/european-witch-hunts-timeline-3530786
- "Witch Trials in Early Modern Europe and New England" https://www.law.berkeley.edu/research/the-robbins-collection/exhibitions/witch-trials-in-early-modern-europe-and-new-england/
- "Witch Trials & Witchcraft" - Library of Congress Resource Guide
- "Witchcraft: Eight Myths and Misconceptions" - https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/eight-witchcraft-myths/
Joined May, 2020
4.9
1323reviews
Popular
Rising Star
Teacher expertise and credentials
Non-US Teaching Certificate in Secondary Education
2 Degrees
Bachelor's Degree in History from Brock University
Bachelor's Degree in Education from Nipissing University
I have a bachelor's degree in History and I am qualified to teach intermediate and senior divisions of History. I have specifically studied European and American history from pre-contact to the 20th century. My lessons will be factually based using a variety of trusted sources that I have acquired through my research.
Please see my Teacher Profile for my specific teaching qualification ID.Reviews
Live Group Course
$75
for 5 classes1x per week, 5 weeks
50 min
Completed by 11 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-16
4-12 learners per class
