An engaging, structured double lesson that helps students to develop their thinking, reading, and writing skills for GCSE English Language (or Functional Skills English) by exploring the topic of life in the trenches of WW1 and the vital role of field nurses. The two main tasks are reading comprehension and creative writing, both provided in a six-page handout, but the lesson’s PowerPoint also includes starter activities to help students improve their eye for detail, their language-interpretation skills, and their understanding of symbolism. What’s more, it contains lots of revealing historical photos for discussion and a link to a short video about everyday life in the trenches. A teacher’s mark scheme for both main tasks is provided, too.