Step 1: Introduction & Thesis Statement: Comprehension and Analysis of Historical Trials:
Objective:
Students will be able to summarize key details of a historical trial, including the events that transpired, the year in which the trial occurred, the verdict, and the factors that contributed to the case's fame.
Directions:
- Choose a historically significant trial.
- Introduction: Research and provide a comprehensive summary, paying special attention to the trial's occurrence, details of the case, and the ultimate verdict, which will be your PRIMARY SOURCE. Analyze the factors that contributed to the trial's fame and evaluate the importance of the events.
- Thesis Statement: Students will analyze the verdict and form an opinion on whether they think the verdict was just or unjust.
- Thesis Statement Formula: Topic + Opinion + because [optional] + Reason[s]
- Example: Through a comprehensive analysis of the Salem Witch Trials, the verdict rendered during the dark episode in American history was ultimately unjust because by examining the socio-political climate, the legal proceedings, and the consequences faced by the accused, it becomes evident that the trial was marred by hysteria, prejudice, and a lack of due process, leading to a verdict that failed to uphold the principles of justice and fairness.
Step 2: Body Content: Critical Analysis of Timeline and Significance:
Objective:
Students will be able to construct a chronological timeline of 3-4 significant events related to a chosen trial, emphasizing the importance of dates. They will understand the relevance of historical context in selecting appropriate sources for analysis.
Directions:
- Develop a detailed timeline of events associated with your chosen trial, highlighting the significance of each date. WARNING! Do not use bullets. You must choose 3-4 significant events and write in paragraph format.
- Discuss how understanding the chronological aspects of the trial, whether recent or historical, influenced the time period’s present, the culture afterwards, and even today [SECONDARY SOURCES].
Step 3: Conclusion: Location-based Analysis and Opinion Formation:
Objective:
Students will critically examine the geographical aspects of a trial, focusing on the locations where the crime and trial occurred. They will form an informed opinion on the justice of the verdict based on their analysis of the trial's location and associated legal context.
Directions:
- Investigate the geographical context of your chosen trial, emphasizing the significance of locations and applicable state laws.
- Analyze how the trial's location impacts the overall verdict.
- Conclusion: Formulate a persuasive opinion on whether the verdict was just or unjust, considering the geographical, legal aspects, and/or anything that you have learned in your research.
