Fear and Justice

In this worksheet, students read three quotes about the Salem Witch Trials and write short responses explaining each quote’s message about fear, justice, or the community. They analyze viewpoints from a court observer, Increase Mather, and a modern historian, comparing historical and modern interpretations. Students must think critically about how fear shaped decisions and whether justice was upheld during the trials. The activity strengthens comprehension of multiple perspectives and enhances students’ ability to interpret evidence. Written responses encourage clarity, reasoning, and reflection.

Curriculum Matched Skills

Social Studies – Evaluating Historical Perspectives

English Language Arts – Short Response Writing

Social Studies – Understanding Fear and Social Behavior

English Language Arts – Evidence-Based Interpretation

This worksheet is part of our Salem Witch Trials Worksheets collection.