Introduction
In preparation for studying early American Literature and the Puritan Era, follow this webquest and answer the questions regarding the Puritans and their way of life. This will help you to understand the reasoning behind the literature they wrote, their beliefs, and how they lived. You will also draw parallels to modern society.
Task
- You will be expected to research various events and aspects of Puritan life in the 1600s. You will also explore the authors' biographies and relate them to the literary themes to be studied.
- You will use the Web to obtain information on the following topics:
- Daily Life in Salem in the 1600s
- Puritanism and Government
- You will be assigned to a group that will plan a presentation to instruct your classmates about your particular topic of study. Your presentation may include role playing, costumes, panel discussions, Power Point, or any other effective method.
Your group will also be responsible for submitting three questions that can be used on a quiz about your topic.
Process
The Process
Group 1 Daily Life in Salem
Answer the following questions about daily life in the 1600s in Puritan New England.
- Describe the clothing worn by men and women in Salem. What types of fabrics were used?
- How did their clothing support their religious views?
- Describe the types of homes that probably existed in Salem. Explain what a palisade is and why it was necessary.
- Describe the family life of Puritans?
- Describe a Puritan meal.
- How did their food and eating habits support their religious views.
Group 2 Puritanism and Government
Answer the following questions about Puritanism.
- What are the basic Puritan beliefs? List at least five.
- What is predestination?
- How would Puritans view those of other faiths?
- Why did Puritans come to the New World?
- List five forces undermining Puritanism in the 1600s.
- What is a theocracy?
Evaluation
Evaluation
Your presentation will receive a group grade based on the following:
- Your presentation must answer all the questions your group has been assigned.
- Your answers must be accurate and complete.
- You should also show some creativity and maintain the interest of your classmates.
- You will be graded on a scale of 35 points.
Your presentation is worth 15 points and your submission of three quiz questions is worth 5 points. The presentation is due on Thursday, and you will receive 15 agency points as well. Do not procrastinate.
Conclusion
Conclusion
When you have completed this assignment you should have some insight into Puritan society in New England during the seventeenth century.