Edexcel 1H10/B4 - L11 - Execution of Mary, Queen of Scots and 16-mark essay practice

Lesson 11 in the scheme for Edexcel 1H10/B4 - Early Elizabethan England, 1558-1588.
This lesson focuses on the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots and the impact on Elizabeth, linking to a 16-mark essay plan which allows a review of the previous 6 lessons.
The lesson starts with a video recapping the threat of Mary, leading to a review of the 4 plots she was implicated in with students assessing how far she was involved. Students then explore the importance of Walsingham’s spy network and explain the significance of Mary’s execution for Elizabeth. Students then debate whether Elizabeth should have ordered the execution.
Students then explore how to structure the 16-mark essay and explore the assessment criteria. Students then complete the essay plan for: ‘The Revolt of the Northern Earls was the most significant challenge to Elizabeth’s rule in the years 1569–86.’ How far do you agree? Explain your answer. (16)
You may use the following in your answer:
• the Earl of Northumberland
• Babington’s execution (1586)
You must also use information of your own.
Finally, a judgement line plenary ends the lesson allowing students to decide if Mary’s execution solved the issue over succession/religion for Elizabeth.