Did Mary I deserve to be called 'Bloody Mary'?

An extensive lesson using a variety of methods and evidence to determine why Mary was called ‘Bloody Mary’ , and how fair that judgement was (interpretation skills).

1. A task where students match up the reasons that Mary was unpopular, and the reasons why (word document provided)
2. A source task where students assess a range of contemporary and modern opinions on Mary (first introduces some arguments to suggest she might not have been ‘bloody’) Sources and recording table included.
3. A REALLY fun group activity where Mary is put on the stand by the class. The class collectively selects 5 ‘accusations’ from a set of 7 as to why she may be called ‘bloody’, and then assess Mary’s defence against these claims. (check the notes on the PPT, it will help with how to navigate this accurately).
4. Finally, pupils write an up answer, based on the evidence, to decide whether or not Mary really deserved to be called ‘bloody’.

Classes always love this one - may take 2 lessons, especially if class enjoys group discussion.