The Salem witch dungeon investigations were a series of trials and interrogations that took place in Salem, Massachusetts in the late 17th century. The events began in 1692, when several young girls in the town claimed to be possessed by the devil and accused several women of practicing witchcraft. This led to a mass hysteria and the authorities launched an investigation to root out the witches from the community. During the investigations, accused individuals were brought before the local magistrates and subjected to intense questioning. The proceedings were often highly theatrical, with the accusers writhing in apparent pain and the accused insisting on their innocence. Many innocent people were accused and imprisoned, their lives ruined by the mere allegation.
This resource includes a paper in-class version and a 1:1 Google compatible version to be used in conjunction with Google Classroom. Just follow the included instructions for how to access the Google version, then share the resource through Google or assign via Google Classroom. This will allow students to type directly into the document!
Each of the four theories is very engaging, student-centered, and is accompanied by analytical questions to get students thinking with the detective mindset. Be sure to follow the History with Mr E Facebook page , and don t forget to signup for the Social Studies Newsletter to receive information on flash sales, product releases, and classroom tips.
Many innocent people were accused and imprisoned, their lives ruined by the mere allegation. The trials were conducted in a dungeon-like setting, with accused witches shackled and confined in dark and cramped cells. The dungeons were a place of fear and suffering, as the accused awaited their fate.
Salem Witch Trials CSI Investigation for 13 Colonies American US History Unit
The Teacher-Author indicated this resource includes assets from Google Workspace (e.g. docs, slides, etc.).
What educators are saying
this is amazing . Thank you my kids enjoyed it, I homeschooled and this made it beyond fun to learn — pamela m. Rated 5 out of 5My students loved completing this activity when we had distance learning and I still use it every year in the classroom. It's fun, engaging, and allows students to thinking critically. Thank you for this resource!
— Brandy K. Rated 5 out of 5 See all reviewsAlso included in
CSI American History Bundle! Lost Colony, Salem, Donner Party, Lincoln, Tulsa Race Riots, Cuban Missile Crisis, JFK!In the CSI American History Bundle, you receive TEN American History focused CSI investigations! Plus, any future American History CSI lessons, will be added to this bundle -- and you
Products $54.99 Price $54.99 $60.90 Original Price $60.90 Save $5.91 View BundleDescription
In this Salem Witch Craft Trials and 13 Colonies CSI investigation, students investigate four major theories to explain how and why the Salem Witchcraft Trials took place. Each of the four theories is very engaging, student-centered, and is accompanied by analytical questions to get students thinking with the "detective" mindset. To conclude, students submit a briefing report to the US State Department outlining the reasons behind this horrific event in early US history!
This resource includes a paper in-class version and a 1:1 Google compatible version to be used in conjunction with Google Classroom. Just follow the included instructions for how to access the Google version, then share the resource through Google or assign via Google Classroom. This will allow students to type directly into the document!
This resource is included in my 13 Colonies Unit located here!
Purchase the bundle and save over 25%!
Check out all of the CSI Investigations!
Be sure to follow the History with Mr E Facebook page, and don't forget to signup for the Social Studies Newsletter to receive information on flash sales, product releases, and classroom tips!
***ATTENTION DISTRICTS AND DEPARTMENTS*** If you are purchasing for your school's department, please buy the appropriate amount of licenses. If it is purchased with school funds, it belongs to the school. If you are a large school district and you are interested in a full district license, please message me and I can work out a quote that is cheaper than what you see.
Total Pages 19 pages Answer Key Included Teaching Duration 1 Week Report this resource to TPTReported resources will be reviewed by our team. Report this resource to let us know if this resource violates TPT’s content guidelines.
This resource is included in my 13 Colonies Unit located here!
Conditions were harsh and the accused were often subjected to physical and psychological torture in an attempt to force a confession. The investigations were driven by a combination of superstition, religious zealotry, and personal grudges. The Salem community was deeply religious and believed in the existence of witches and the devil. Fear and paranoia fueled the accusations, as people turned on one another in an attempt to protect themselves from being labeled as witches. Ultimately, the investigations resulted in the execution of 20 individuals, most of them women. Innocent lives were lost, families were torn apart, and the community was left scarred by the events. The Salem witch dungeon investigations serve as a haunting reminder of the danger of unchecked hysteria and the devastating consequences it can have on innocent lives..
Reviews for "The Salem Witch Dungeon: A Glimpse into the Dark Past of Colonial America"
1. John Doe - 1/5
I recently attended the Salem witch dungeon investigations and it was a complete disappointment. The whole experience felt like a tourist trap rather than an informative historical excursion. The tour guide seemed more interested in making jokes and entertaining the crowd rather than providing accurate information about the Salem witch trials. Additionally, the "investigations" were nothing more than melodramatic reenactments without any real evidence or substance. Overall, I would not recommend this tour for anyone looking for a genuine educational experience.
2. Jane Smith - 2/5
I had high hopes for the Salem witch dungeon investigations, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The tour felt rushed, and the guide spoke in a monotone voice, lacking enthusiasm or engagement. The historical accuracy was questionable, and it was difficult to distinguish between actual historical facts and sensationalized storytelling. Furthermore, the group sizes were too large, making it challenging to hear and follow along with the guide. Overall, I was disappointed with the lack of depth and authenticity in this tour.
3. Emily Johnson - 2/5
I was not impressed with the Salem witch dungeon investigations. The whole experience felt forced and artificial. The tour guide seemed more interested in reciting a script rather than connecting with the visitors. The information provided was basic and did not delve into the complexities of the Salem witch trials. The dungeon reenactment lacked realism, and it felt like a poorly acted scene from a low-budget movie. If you are looking for an immersive and historically accurate experience, I would suggest looking elsewhere.
4. Michael Williams - 2/5
The Salem witch dungeon investigations were a letdown. The tour guide seemed to rely on stereotypes and clichés to convey the history of the Salem witch trials, rather than providing a nuanced and accurate portrayal. The use of props and special effects felt tacky and cheapened the overall experience. Moreover, the tour lacked organization and structure, making it difficult to follow the storyline. All in all, I would not recommend this tour to anyone seeking an informative and authentic exploration of Salem's dark history.
5. Sarah Thompson - 1/5
I regret choosing the Salem witch dungeon investigations as my historical tour. The guide's lack of knowledge and passion for the subject matter was apparent throughout the tour. It felt like a hastily put together performance rather than a thoughtful exploration of the Salem witch trials. The pacing was off, and there were numerous moments of awkward silence. I left feeling disappointed and ripped off. I would advise others to seek out alternative tours that provide a more informative and engaging experience.