Boston Massacre Mock Trial

Students take on the roles of either lawyer, witness, or jury in this project-based activity. They begin by researching the background of the events leading up to the Boston Massacre on March 5, 1770. They conduct a police investigation of scenes from the crime over the years. Together, in groups, they create witness testimony, opening, and closing statements, rebuttals, and cross-examination. The jury will continue to research events leading up to and after the massacre and create a timeline in preparation. Everything you need to conduct this project is included in this google doc.

Students loved this hands-on approach to learning about a topic from history!

Included in document:

Role prepartion for students- details about what they will do.

Background Information with questions

Police Report on Primary Sources

Worksheets for all student roles

Job Application for students to "apply" to the role they want

Jury Timeline Project

Jury Notes for Trial

Opening and Closing Arguments Instructions

Witness Profile