Second World War - The Blitz

This lesson examines the Blitz, a sustained bombing campaign by Nazi Germany against Britain during World War II. Students will learn about the threats, how Britain adapted, and the concept of the Blitz Spirit. Activities include video analysis, completing worksheets on threats and adaptations, and writing PEEKA paragraphs. The lesson concludes with a discussion on the existence of the Blitz Spirit, supported by evidence from various sources.

Lesson Content and Activities:

Introduction:
Discuss the Blitz and its significance during World War II.
Create a spider diagram and add to it while watching a video on the Blitz.

Threats:
Identify and analyse the threats posed by Heinkel bombers, V1 rockets, and V2 rockets.
Complete the ‘threats’ section on the Blitz worksheet using fact sheets.

Adaptations:
Discuss how Britain adapted to the bombings with bomb shelters, the London Underground, blackouts, barrage balloons, and the Royal Observer Corps.
Complete the ‘adaptations’ section on the Blitz worksheet using fact sheets.

Blitz Spirit:
Examine the concept of the Blitz Spirit and its portrayal in history.
Read through various sources and complete a table analysing whether the sources support the idea of a united Blitz Spirit.

Writing Task:
Write two PEEKA paragraphs, one arguing that there was a Blitz Spirit and one arguing that there was not.
Use evidence from at least two sources to support each paragraph.

Class Discussion:
Share and discuss the paragraphs.
Reflect on the impact of the Blitz on British society and whether the Blitz Spirit was a real phenomenon.

Resources:
Spider diagram template
Video link on the Blitz
Fact sheets on threats and adaptations
Sources for Blitz Spirit analysis
PEEKA paragraph guidelines

From a series of over 30 Second World War lessons made by Wolsey Academy. They provide a thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of 20th Century History and each lesson looks to focus on a range of historical skills and exam techniques to equip students with knowledge and transferable research, analysis and study skills.
To find the complete bundle search on the Wolsey Academy website.

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