Mystery Meets History

• Grade Level: 5 – 9
• Duration: 6+ Class Periods
• Subjects: Language Arts/English, Media Literacy, Social Studies/History, Science — Electricity (grade specific)

Writers have a responsibility to honour the integrity of historical figures and events while making narrative choices that engage and resonate with contemporary audiences.

In this lesson, students learn that Murdoch Mysteries is looking for new script ideas featuring historical figures, whether new to the series or making a return visit. They’ll begin by exploring how Murdoch Mysteries handles historical fiction, researching Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison, both of whom appear in various episodes of the show.

Students will then analyze the episode “Power,” in which Tesla appears. They will assess how the episode balances historical accuracy with creative storytelling license and discuss the writer’s responsibility to both history and the historical figure.

With this foundation, students will research a historical character of their choice and plan and pitch their own Murdoch Mysteries episode idea.

Note: Murdoch Mysteries is considered a family show; however, it deals with murder as do some lesson activities. Consider previewing episodes to ensure you are able to address any questions or concerns.

Power — Season 1, Episode 1: Detective William Murdoch investigates the suspicious electrocution of a young woman during a public demonstration of electric current in 1890s Toronto. Working alongside inventor Nikola Tesla, Murdoch uncovers a plot linked to the fierce “war of currents,” blending cutting-edge science with classic detective work.

• The War of Currents
• The Power Station in Niagara Falls, New York
• Learn more about episode characters Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison (mentioned)

• Simple research skills
• Self-Reflection Journals — process, product, transitional skills
• Creating an “elevator pitch” — a one-minute promotion of an idea

Consider introducing students to the World of Murdoch Mysteries to familiarize them with the show and characters before the lesson.

Depending on where you live, electricity may be part of the curriculum for your grade level. Consider combining this lesson with science-specific lessons.

How can we use stories to make history feel real and relatable, while staying true to the facts?

What are the responsibilities of an author when they write historical fiction? To the reader? To the historical figure or events?

1. Why is it important to balance creative license with historical accuracy?
Think about how a story might feel if historical facts were exaggerated or altered too much. How could this affect a reader’s understanding of real events?

2. What are the responsibilities of an author when they write historical fiction?
Think about how an author’s portrayal of history might affect how people view historical truths. Consider the trust readers place in authors to handle historical topics with care and respect.

3. What should be “fiction” and what should be “fact” about the historical figure?
Think about the parts of a historical figure’s life that are essential to their identity. How might changing certain details alter how we perceive them? Consider what aspects of their life can be creatively explored to enhance the story, while still being respectful.

4. What is the role of the historical character within historical fiction?
Imagine a historical figure as the bridge between the past and present. Consider the ways this character can help tell a larger story about the past and/or comment about events/attitudes in the present.

• Historical Accuracy & Interpretation: Students will evaluate how faithful representation of historical facts shapes audience understanding, and consider how excessive creative freedom can distort or enrich historical fiction.
• Character Impact on Narrative: Students will analyze how adding or omitting specific historical figures changes a story’s themes, conflicts and overall message.
• Research & Creative Integration: Students will investigate a historical figure and thoughtfully weave key aspects of their personality, achievements, beliefs or skills into an original Murdoch Mysteries storyline.
• Story Development & Presentation: Students will craft and present a detailed pitch for a new Murdoch episode, balancing historical authenticity with creative storytelling to captivate their peers.
• Reflective Insight: Students will reflect on their character choice, explaining which traits or historical elements were highlighted, how the character advances the mystery’s resolution and what lesson or message their story offers contemporary audiences.

Students will develop and apply:

• Communication — Use digital tools, listen to all POVs, written, verbal, visual, give and receive feedback, ask questions, present orally
• Teamwork — collaboration
• Executive Functions — organization, time management, seek feedback
• Innovation — unconventional thinking, brainstorming
• Decision Making — analytical, consider different perspectives, compare and contrast
• Engaged Citizen — learn from history
• Learner Agency — self-directed

Students will research a historical character of their choice and incorporate that character into a script idea for a new Murdoch Mysteries episode. They will demonstrate an understanding of the author’s responsibility to balance fact and fiction by creating an engaging storyline that honors the historical figure. Students will then orally pitch their story idea in a short presentation.