This lesson explores the establishment and actions of Vichy France, Charles de Gaulle, and the Free French during World War II. Students will learn about the fall of France, the Vichy regime’s collaboration with Nazi Germany, and the resistance efforts led by de Gaulle. Activities include timeline sorting, analysing de Gaulle’s speeches, and creating infographics. The lesson concludes with a discussion on the legacy of the Vichy regime and the Free French. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss the fall of France in 1940 and the establishment of the Vichy regime under Marshal Philippe Pétain. Read The Guardian newspaper excerpt from 1940 and discuss the French decision not to defend Paris and its implications. The Division of France: Explain the division of France into the occupied zone and the unoccupied Vichy zone. Discuss the collaboration between Vichy France and Nazi Germany. Mers-el-Kébir Incident: Describe the British attack on the French naval base at Mers-el-Kébir. Discuss whether the British were justified in their actions and debate this as a class. Policies of Pétain and Vichy France: Discuss Pétain’s policies, including the “National Revolution,” and the shift from “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity” to “Work, Family, Fatherland.” Sort timeline cards into the correct chronological order to understand the sequence of events under Vichy France. Charles de Gaulle and the Free French: Read de Gaulle’s BBC speech and highlight examples of rhetorical devices and calls to action. Research and create an infographic on Charles de Gaulle and the Free French, focusing on structured layout, visual elements, and minimal text. Writing Task: Write an essay explaining the impact of Vichy France’s collaboration with Nazi Germany and the significance of the Free French resistance. Use the PEEKA paragraph structure to organise the arguments. Class Discussion: Share and discuss the infographics and essays. Reflect on the legacy of Vichy France and the contributions of the Free French to the Allied victory. Resources: Excerpt from The Guardian, 1940 Timeline cards for sorting De Gaulle’s BBC speech Infographic creation tools and guidelines PEEKA paragraph guidelines

This lesson examines the key turning points in 1942 during World War II, focusing on the battles of El Alamein, Stalingrad, and Midway. Students will learn how these battles marked a shift in the war’s momentum towards the Allies. Activities include video analysis, completing worksheets, and writing an essay using the PEEKA structure. The lesson concludes with a peer review of essays to refine understanding and writing skills. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Recap events of 1940/41 that put the Axis powers in a strong position. Discuss the significance of 1942 as a turning point year. Key Battles of 1942: Study the Battle of El Alamein, Stalingrad, and Midway. Watch the Netflix documentary “World War II: From the Front Lines Episode 3: Turning Point” and complete the worksheet. Detailed Analysis: Explore the causes, events, and consequences of each battle. Discuss how these battles shifted momentum towards the Allies. Essay Writing: Plan and write a five-paragraph essay on whether 1942 was a turning point in World War II. Use the PEEKA structure for each paragraph: Point, Evidence, Explain, Knowledge, Answer the question. Peer Assessment: Swap essays with a peer for feedback. Highlight PEEKA sentences and provide constructive feedback. Class Discussion: Discuss key points from the essays and reflect on the importance of these battles in the broader context of World War II. Resources: Netflix documentary link Worksheet on key battles PEEKA paragraph guidelines and planning sheet Peer assessment checklist 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you. Hope it helps. W

This lesson explores the rise of Benito Mussolini and the establishment of fascist rule in Italy from 1919 to 1925. Students will learn about the socio-economic factors that contributed to Mussolini’s rise, his use of violence and propaganda, and key events like the March on Rome. Activities include video analysis, sorting timeline events, and writing a PEEKA paragraph. The lesson concludes with a discussion on Mussolini’s impact on Italy and European politics. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss the historical context of post-World War I Italy, including economic depression and political instability. Watch a video on the rise of Mussolini and create a spider diagram to note key points. Quiz-Quiz-Trade Activity: Walk around the classroom and partner up to ask and answer questions using the provided question cards. Trade question cards after each interaction. Who Was Mussolini? Learn about Benito Mussolini, the formation of the Fascist Party in 1919, and his rise to power. Discuss his use of nationalism and authoritarianism. Timeline Activity: Sort timeline cards into the correct chronological order, covering key events such as the formation of the Fascist Party, the Biennio Rosso, the use of Black Shirts, the March on Rome, and the establishment of dictatorship. Factors Contributing to Mussolini’s Rise: Examine the “Mutilated Victory” and its influence on Italian politics. Discuss the fear of communism and the Biennio Rosso. Analyze Mussolini’s use of violence and propaganda, including the Black Shirts and media control. Writing Task: Write a PEEKA paragraph explaining one key factor that contributed to Mussolini’s rise to power. Use the PEEKA structure: Point, Evidence, Explain, Knowledge (extra), Answer the question. Class Discussion: Share and discuss the PEEKA paragraphs. Reflect on Mussolini’s impact on Italy and the broader European political landscape. Resources: Video link on Mussolini’s rise Spider diagram template Timeline cards for sorting Question cards for Quiz-Quiz-Trade activity 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you. Hope it helps. W

This lesson explores the Home Guard during World War II, focusing on their recruitment, responsibilities, challenges, and impact. Students will learn about the role of the Home Guard, often referred to as ‘Dad’s Army,’ through video analysis, note-taking, and role-playing activities. The lesson concludes with a writing task to explain the impact of the Home Guard on Britain’s Home Front, using the PEEKA paragraph structure. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Watch a video on the Home Guard and take notes on recruitment, responsibilities, challenges, and impact. Recruitment: Discuss who joined the Home Guard and why, including the role of women in auxiliary roles. Responsibilities: Explain the duties of the Home Guard, such as manning anti-aircraft guns, patrolling, and handling unexploded bombs. Challenges Faced: Discuss the challenges, including shortages of weapons and equipment, and the lack of formal military training. Impact: Examine the contributions of the Home Guard to local communities and national security, and their role in maintaining public order and morale. Role Play: Write and act out a Home Guard sketch based on a given scenario. Include as many keywords as possible and be prepared to act them out to the class. Writing Task: Write a PEEKA paragraph explaining the impact of the Home Guard on Britain’s Home Front. Mention at least one impact and discuss one limitation. Use today’s keywords and PEEKA paragraph structure. Class Discussion: Share and discuss the sketches and paragraphs. Reflect on the significance and legacy of the Home Guard. Resources: Video link on the Home Guard Keyword flashcards PEEKA paragraph guidelines and sentence starters Scenario cards for role play 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you. Hope it helps. W

This lesson examines the British Home Front during World War II, focusing on the daily lives of civilians, rationing, evacuation, and the Dig for Victory campaign. Students will learn about the impact of the war on British society through video analysis, guided reading, and creative projects. Activities include analysing Evelyn Carter’s diary, creating posters for the Ministry of Information, and writing PEEKA paragraphs. The lesson concludes with a discussion on the challenges and resilience of the British people. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss the concept of the Home Front and its significance during World War II. Watch videos on life in Britain and rationing during the war. Video Analysis: Choose the correct summary of the rationing video and discuss its accuracy. Evelyn Carter’s Diary: Read extracts from Evelyn Carter’s fictional diary. Make notes on how various aspects of the Home Front impacted her life, including gas masks, rationing, the black market, Dig for Victory, evacuations, her husband fighting, ARP wardens, and the Women’s Voluntary Service. The Home Front Experience: Discuss the key aspects of the Home Front such as evacuations, the Dig for Victory campaign, rationing, and the black market. Examine government posters encouraging evacuation and discuss their messages and target audiences. Creative Project: Create a poster for the Ministry of Information to encourage people to support the Home Front. Choose a campaign, select a target audience, and create a short slogan. Design the poster to be eye-catching and respectful. Writing Task: Write a PEEKA paragraph explaining the impact of the Home Front on British society. Mention at least one impact and discuss one limitation. Use today’s keywords and PEEKA paragraph structure. Class Discussion: Share and discuss the posters and paragraphs. Reflect on the resilience and challenges faced by the British people during the war. Resources: Video links on life in Britain and rationing Extracts from Evelyn Carter’s diary Government posters 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you. Hope it helps. W

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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you. Hope it helps. W

This lesson examines the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), highlighting its significance as a precursor to World War II. Students will explore the conflict between Republicans and Nationalists, key events, and international involvement. Activities include analysing propaganda posters, guided reading on major speeches, and writing diary entries from George Orwell’s perspective. The lesson concludes with a discussion on the war’s impact on Spanish society and its broader implications. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss the Spanish Civil War, its causes, and its significance as a prelude to World War II. Watch a video for an overview of the conflict. Key Figures and Events: Examine the roles of key figures such as Francisco Franco and Manuel Azaña. Discuss the involvement of Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy in supporting the Nationalists, and the USSR and International Brigades supporting the Republicans. Propaganda Posters: Analyse Nationalist and Republican propaganda posters. Discuss what each side aimed to communicate and how they tried to influence public opinion. Guided Reading Task: Read speeches by Francisco Franco, Manuel Azaña, Edward Knoblaugh, and George Orwell. Complete the ‘viewpoints’ worksheet by summarising each leader’s perspective on the war. What Happened at Guernica in 1937? Discuss the bombing of Guernica, the role of the Luftwaffe, and the impact of this event. Analyse Pablo Picasso’s painting “Guernica” and its depiction of the horrors of war. George Orwell’s Diary: Write diary entries from George Orwell’s perspective based on his experiences in the International Brigades. Use the hint sheets to help structure the diary entries and include key events and conditions of the fighting. Writing Task: Write an essay explaining the significance of the Spanish Civil War in the context of the rise of fascism and the lead-up to World War II. Use the PEEKA paragraph structure to organise arguments. Class Discussion: Share and discuss the diary entries and essays. Reflect on the impact of the Spanish Civil War on Spain and its broader implications for European politics. Resources: Video link on the Spanish Civil War Propaganda posters Guided reading texts and viewpoints worksheet Hint sheets for diary entries PEEKA paragraph guidelines

This lesson examines the resistance movements in Nazi-occupied Europe from 1938 to 1945. Students will explore different forms of resistance, from passive defiance to active combat, through case studies of notable resistance efforts. Activities include analysing primary sources, creating infographics, and discussing the motivations and impacts of resistance. The lesson concludes with a writing task reflecting on how individuals resisted Nazi occupation and a peer assessment of the infographics. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss the extent of Nazi occupation in Europe and the concept of resistance. Consider how individuals might respond to occupation, categorising responses as collaboration, passive, or active resistance. Types of Response: Match keywords to definitions of different types of resistance. Read statements and categorise them as collaboration, passive resistance, or active resistance. Case Studies: Study four significant resistance efforts: Simone Segouin, The Comet Line, Warsaw Uprising, and the Ukrainian Insurgent Army. Answer questions on each case study to understand their objectives, methods, and impacts. Resistance Infographic Projects: Conduct research on famous resistance movements, events, or individuals in Nazi-occupied Europe. Create a one-page infographic that includes engaging visuals, concise information, logical structure, and consistent design. Peer Assessment: Grade infographics based on structured layout, visual elements, and minimal text. Use a scoring system out of 9 for peer assessment. How Would You React? Discuss how students might respond to a Nazi invasion, considering factors that could influence their decisions. Writing Task: Write an essay reflecting on how individuals resisted Nazi occupation using the PEEKA paragraph structure. Plan and organise thoughts using the PEEKA grid and guidance sheet. Class Discussion: Share and discuss essays. Reflect on the various forms of resistance and their significance in the broader context of World War II. Resources: Primary sources and case study information Infographic creation tools and guidelines PEEKA paragraph guidelines and planning sheet

This lesson examines the attack on Pearl Harbour on 7th December 1941, which prompted the United States to enter World War II. Students will learn about the causes, events, and consequences of the attack. Activities include brainstorming prior knowledge, video analysis, categorising causes and consequences, guided reading, and writing PEEKA paragraphs. The lesson concludes with a reflection on the impact of the attack on American public opinion and the course of the war. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss what students already know about the attack on Pearl Harbour. Write down ideas and swap with peers to create a comprehensive spider diagram. What Was It? Provide an overview of the attack, including key details about the surprise military strike by the Japanese Navy Air Service. Video Analysis: Watch clips from the Imperial War Museum and other sources to gather additional information on the causes and consequences of the attack. Add notes to the spider diagram. Why Did Japan Attack? What Were the Consequences? Break down the causes and consequences into three categories: political, economic, and military. Define each category and discuss examples. Causes and Consequences of the Attack: Complete a worksheet by colour coding the causes and consequences according to their categories. Draw icons to help remember each factor. Write a summary of the events of the day. Guided Reading Task: Give each paragraph a subheading and write down three key facts for each. Why is it Known as ‘A Day that Will Live in Infamy’? Watch and listen to President Franklin Roosevelt’s speech given the day after the attack. Discuss the key points and the USA’s response. Writing Task: Write two paragraphs explaining the consequences of the attack on Pearl Harbour using the PEEKA paragraph structure. Plan the answer using the PEEKA grid and guidance sheet. Class Discussion: Share and discuss the written paragraphs. Reflect on the immediate and long-term impacts of the attack on Pearl Harbour. Resources: Spider diagram template Video links on the attack Worksheet for categorising causes and consequences Guided reading text PEEKA paragraph guidelines and planning sheet

This lesson explores the Japanese invasion of China in 1937, a key event leading to the Second Sino-Japanese War. Students will learn about the motivations behind Japan’s aggression, the Marco Polo Bridge Incident, and the impact on Chinese resistance. Activities include guided reading, video analysis, group discussions, and a writing task on the consequences of the invasion. The lesson concludes with a reflection on the roles of the GMD and CCP in resisting Japanese forces. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss Japan’s industrial expansion and territorial ambitions following the Meiji Restoration. Explain the context of the First and Second Sino-Japanese Wars. Chiang Kai-shek Declares War: Discuss the initial advances of the Japanese and Chiang Kai-shek’s response after the Marco Polo Bridge Incident. Analyze the red areas on the map showing land captured by the Japanese. The Marco Polo Bridge Incident 1937: Detail the incident that marked the beginning of the Second Sino-Japanese War. Discuss the conflict between Chinese and Japanese troops and the subsequent declaration of war by Chiang Kai-shek. Guided Reading Task: Give each paragraph a subheading and write down three key facts for each. Refer to the provided accessible text link for additional information. The Second United Front: Discuss the formation of the Second United Front, the collaboration between the GMD and CCP to resist the Japanese invasion. Analyze why Chiang Kai-shek agreed to work with the Communists despite initial reluctance. Video Task: Watch a video on China’s actions during the war and add new details to the notes. Japan Advances Quickly: Discuss the rapid advancements of the Japanese forces and significant events like the Rape of Nanjing. Analyze the global reaction to the famous photograph of a child in a ruined train station. Who Did the Most to Stop the Japanese? Debate the roles of the CCP and GMD in resisting the Japanese invasion. Sort factors into categories of CCP Success and GMD Failures. Writing Task: Write an essay explaining two consequences of the Japanese invasion of China for the GMD and CCP using the PEEKA paragraph structure. Class Discussion: Share and discuss the essays. Reflect on the roles of the GMD and CCP and their contributions to the war effort. Resources: Video link on the invasion of China Guided reading text Group activity fact sheet PEEKA paragraph guidelines

This lesson explores the Invasion of Norway in 1940, focusing on the strategic reasons behind the invasion, the key events, and the outcome. Students will learn about Operation Weserübung, the role of Vidkun Quisling, and the impact on World War II. Activities include video analysis, timeline sorting, and group discussions. The lesson concludes with a writing task analysing the factors that led to the success of the German invasion. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss the strategic importance of Norway for Germany, including access to iron ore and naval routes. Watch a video overview of the invasion and its context. The Story of HMS Glowworm: Tell the story of HMS Glowworm’s heroic encounter with the German cruiser Admiral Hipper. Discuss the bravery of the crew and the recommendation for a medal. Timeline Sorting: Sort the timeline cards into the correct chronological order, from the beginning of Operation Wilfred to the surrender of Norway. Churchill’s Role: Discuss Churchill’s involvement and the irony of the situation leading to his rise as Prime Minister. Vidkun Quisling: Explain who Vidkun Quisling was and his role as a traitor and collaborator with the Nazis. Discuss the impact of his actions on Norway. Group Activity: Outside the classroom, read a fact sheet about the invasion. Return and discuss the facts within the group, categorising them into German Strategy, German Tactics, and Allied Weakness. Writing Task: Write an essay explaining two reasons why the Nazis were successful in their invasion of Norway. Use the PEEKA paragraph structure to organise the arguments. Class Discussion: Share and discuss the essays. Reflect on the strategic and tactical reasons behind the invasion’s success. Resources: Video link on the invasion of Norway Printable timeline cards Fact sheet for group activity 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you. Hope it helps.

This lesson examines the Battle of Dunkirk and the dramatic evacuation of Allied forces in 1940. Students will learn about Operation Dynamo, the role of the ‘Little Boats,’ and the strategic and psychological impacts of the evacuation. Activities include creating a spider diagram, video analysis, group research, and writing a balanced argument on whether Dunkirk was a success or failure. The lesson concludes with a peer review of the written arguments. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss the context of Dunkirk in 1940 and the significance of the evacuation. Watch the trailer for the 2017 Dunkirk movie and create a spider diagram while watching. Operation Dynamo: In groups, collect information sheets on four key areas and summarize the most important details (focus on statistics and dates). Churchill’s Initial Hopes: Explain Churchill’s initial belief that only 30,000 troops could be rescued and his hopes for organizing a strategic retreat. The Role of the ‘Little Boats’: Discuss the involvement of 850 civilian vessels in the evacuation and their critical role in rescuing over 338,000 soldiers under heavy fire. The Success of Operation Dynamo: Review the results of Operation Dynamo, including the evacuation of approximately 338,000 Allied troops and its impact on Allied morale. The Perimeter Defence: Explain the fierce fighting and strategic decisions that allowed the Allies to create a perimeter and buy time for the evacuation. Dunkirk: Success or Failure? Read and analyze seven historical sources to determine if they depict Dunkirk as a success or failure. Consider the provenance of each source and its reliability. Writing Task: Write an essay answering the question: “To what extent was Operation Dynamo a success?” Use the PEEKA paragraph structure to present balanced arguments and a conclusion. Class Discussion: Share and discuss the essays. Reflect on the strategic and psychological impacts of Dunkirk. Resources: Spider diagram template Video links for Dunkirk trailers Information sheets on Operation Dynamo Historical sources for success or failure 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you. Hope it helps. W

This lesson explores the Battle of the Atlantic and the role of Coastal Command during World War II. Students will examine the strategies, challenges, and key figures involved in this crucial battle. Activities include a quiz-quiz-trade exercise, video analysis, source-based research, and a writing task. The lesson concludes with a discussion on the effectiveness of different strategies used to counter the U-Boat threat and their impact on the war. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Introduce the Battle of the Atlantic and explain its significance as the longest continuous battle of World War II. Discuss why Winston Churchill considered the U-Boat threat as the most frightening aspect of the war. Quiz-Quiz-Trade: Use keyword cards to walk around the classroom and quiz peers on key terms and concepts related to the Battle of the Atlantic. What was it? Provide an overview of the battle, focusing on the objectives, strategies, and key events. Discuss the impact of U-Boats on Allied shipping and the initial challenges faced by the Allies. U-Boats – The Danger: Explain how U-Boats operated with hybrid engines and why this was advantageous. Discuss their strategy of forming wolf packs to attack merchant ships and the early successes they achieved. Convoy System: Discuss the introduction of the convoy system and how it helped protect Allied shipping. Show a video on the Western Approaches Command and its role in coordinating convoys. Allied Responses: Examine the various strategies and innovations used by the Allies to counter the U-Boat threat, including: Coastal Command’s early challenges and improvements The role of Günther Prien and the attack on Scapa Flow The ‘Happy Times’ for U-Boats and the mid-Atlantic air gap Technological innovations such as sonar, VLR Liberators, and the Enigma code-breaking Gallery Walk: Move around the room to view the ‘gallery of factors’ that contributed to the Allies winning the Battle of the Atlantic. Add these factors to a worksheet and discuss their importance in groups. Writing Task: Write an essay addressing the question: “How did the Allies win the Battle of the Atlantic?” 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you.

This lesson explores the Arctic Convoys during World War II, focusing on their purpose, the challenges faced, and their impact. Students will learn about the significance of these convoys in supporting the USSR and the dangers involved. Activities include map work, analysing primary sources, a gallery walk, and writing a PEEKA paragraph. The lesson concludes with a reflection on the personal experiences of sailors through diary extracts. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss the concept of total war and the necessity of the Arctic Convoys. Define key terms: Lend-Lease, Arctic Convoys. Map Work: Complete the ‘Arctic Convoys’ map sheets, plotting the route from Britain to the Soviet Union. Why Were They Needed? Explain the importance of supplying the USSR after Hitler’s invasion. Discuss the Lend-Lease Act and its significance. Dangers of the Arctic Route: Identify and discuss the dangers: extreme weather, German U-Boats, aircraft, capital ships, and long daylight hours. Watch a video on Convoy PQ17 and discuss the outcomes. Gallery Walk: View images from the Arctic Convoys and write down three adjectives to describe the conditions seen. Diary Extracts: Read extracts from Ivor Davies’ diary. Complete a table identifying themes such as environmental challenges, duties on the ship, threats from the enemy, and isolation. Writing Task: Write a PEEKA paragraph on the most significant challenge faced by the sailors. Use sentence starters and provide detailed evidence. Class Discussion: Share and discuss the written paragraphs. Reflect on how these experiences shaped the relationship between the Allies and the USSR. Resources: Map sheets Video link on Convoy PQ17 Image gallery slides Diary extracts PEEKA paragraph guidelines and sentence starters 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you. Hope it helps. W

This lesson examines the Battle of the Somme, one of World War I’s most significant and controversial battles. Students will explore the battle’s events, strategies, and leadership through historical perspectives. Activities include video analysis, mind mapping, source-based research, and debating the effectiveness of British generals. The lesson concludes with a writing task on whether the British generals were “lions led by donkeys” and a peer assessment of the arguments. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss what students already know about the Battle of the Somme. Create a mind map with initial knowledge. Video Analysis: Watch a video on the Battle of the Somme. Add new information to the mind map in a different colour. Battle Overview: Provide an overview of the battle, its objectives, duration, and outcomes. Discuss the high casualty rates and limited territorial gains. Historical Perspectives: Compare traditional and revisionist views on the battle using quotes from historians John Keegan and Gary Sheffield. Task: Identify agreements and disagreements between the historians. Factors Analysis: Examine various factors (A-G) related to the battle, such as high casualty rates, complexity of war, strategies, German defenses, improvements over time, logistical successes, and contextual successes. Complete a table assessing whether each factor suggests that British generals were “donkeys.” Debate Preparation: Prepare arguments for and against the idea that British generals were “lions led by donkeys.” Use provided factors and historian quotes to support arguments. Writing Task: Write an essay answering the question: “Were the British generals really donkeys at the Battle of the Somme?” Structure: Introduction, arguments for, arguments against, conclusion. Peer Assessment: Peer assess a partner’s essay based on structure, use of evidence, quoting historians, and clarity of conclusion. Provide feedback and a score out of 5 for each criterion. Resources: Video link on the Battle of the Somme Mind map template Historian quotes and factors table Writing task guidelines and structure Peer assessment checklist Taken from a series of over 30 First 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you. Hope it helps.

This lesson explores the Meuse-Argonne Offensive of 1918, a critical battle in World War I that significantly contributed to the war’s end. Students will examine the American experience during this offensive and its impact. Activities include video analysis, source-based research, creative project presentations, and a quiz to reinforce learning. The lesson concludes with a reflection on the offensive’s significance. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Watch a video on the Meuse-Argonne Offensive to understand its significance. Discuss the main objectives and outcomes of the offensive. Creative Project: Students will create a project answering the question: “What was the American experience during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive and how did it contribute to the end of the war?” Projects can be in various formats: website, presentation, essay, recorded documentary, etc. Ensure inclusion of information from source materials (A-H). Source-Based Research: Complete tasks on source materials, such as studying maps, reading articles, and analysing photographs. Source A: Overview and casualties of the offensive. Source B: Map analysis. Source C: American Expeditionary Force (AEF) trench lines and terrain. Source D: The Lost Battalion’s challenges. Source E: Historical impact and casualty figures. Source F: Alvin York’s heroics. Source G: Harlem Hellfighters’ contributions. Source H: Photographs and descriptive adjectives. Quiz: Take a 10-question quiz to test understanding of key facts about the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Project Presentations: Present projects to the class. Provide and receive feedback based on content from sources. Reflection: Discuss the overall impact of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive on World War I. Reflect on the American experience and the offensive’s role in leading to the armistice. Resources: Video link on the Meuse-Argonne Offensive Source materials (A-H) for research Quiz questions and answers Project guidelines and rubric Taken from a series of over 30 First 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you. Hope it helps.

This lesson explores the significant changes in women’s roles during the First World War. Students will examine how total war necessitated women’s participation in various sectors, including factories, transport, and medical services. Activities include a gallery task to create informative posters, a gallery walk for peer learning, and writing a report to the government on women’s contributions and recommendations for societal changes post-war. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction to Total War: Define total war and discuss its implications on society. Watch a video explaining total war. Women’s Roles Before the War: Discuss women’s traditional roles before WWI, focusing on domestic jobs and limited legal rights. Highlight exceptions where women were part of the workforce, especially in textiles. Women’s Roles During the War: Explain the shift in women’s roles due to the war, taking on jobs traditionally held by men. Discuss the various sectors where women worked: factories, transport, medical services, police, and military auxiliary corps. Gallery Task: In groups, create posters on different aspects of women’s roles during WWI. Include a caption summarising the information. Display posters around the classroom. Gallery Walk: Students walk around and view the posters, completing a mind map with facts and details from each poster. Report to the Government 1918: Write a report imagining you are an advisor to the government at the end of the war. Include the situation before the war, reasons for women’s role changes, examples of their contributions, and recommendations for societal changes. Use the provided structure and sentence starters. Resources: Video link on total war Information packs for the gallery task Poster materials Mind map template Report structure and sentence starters Taken from a series of over 30 First 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you. Hope it helps.

This lesson examines the reasons behind the United States’ entry into World War I in 1917. Students will explore the concepts of neutrality and isolationism, analyse key events like unrestricted submarine warfare and the Zimmermann Telegram, and debate the pros and cons of joining the war. Activities include reading and discussing historical statements, role-playing a debate, and summarising key arguments. The lesson concludes with a reflection on the impact of US involvement in the war. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss keywords: neutrality and isolationism. Overview of the USA’s stance before entering the war. Why Enter the War? Examine reasons against joining the war through historical statements and discuss in pairs. List the reasons why Americans were hesitant to join the war. President Woodrow Wilson’s Speeches: Analyse Wilson’s January 22, 1917, speech to Congress and discuss its implications on US neutrality. Compare with his May 10, 1915, speech and identify changes in his stance. Unrestricted Submarine Warfare: Discuss Germany’s strategy and its impact on American ships and goods. Highlight the sinking of the RMS Lusitania and its consequences. Zimmermann Telegram: Read and interpret the Zimmermann Telegram. Discuss its impact on American public opinion and the decision to enter the war. Debate Preparation: Assign roles as Hawks (pro-war) or Doves (pro-neutrality). Prepare arguments for and against joining the war, considering both the historical context and provided resources. Class Debate: Conduct a debate on whether the USA should join the war. Use teacher-tracked arguments to summarise the discussion. Reflection: Write down a reason for or against joining the war on a post-it note and place it on the whiteboard. Discuss the final decision and its implications. Resources: Historical statements and speeches RMS Lusitania and Zimmermann Telegram details Debate preparation sheets Post-it notes for reflection Taken from a series of over 30 First 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you.

This lesson examines the nature and impact of trench warfare during World War I. Students will learn about the development and structure of trenches, the daily life of soldiers, and the weaponry used. Activities include video analysis, group research on weapons, and a trench drawing exercise. The lesson concludes with a paragraph writing task using key vocabulary and peer feedback to solidify understanding. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discuss why trench warfare was relatively new on this scale and the shift from previous military tactics. Watch a clip from the Waterloo movie for context. Weapons of War: Introduction to key weapons that changed warfare: machine guns, artillery, barbed wire, bolt-action rifles, chemical weapons, tanks, and aircraft. Team Teaching: In groups, research a specific weapon and create a 2-minute presentation. Present findings to other groups, focusing on the weapon’s impact on battles. Trench Features: Draw and label a simplified trench diagram in notebooks. Discuss the different parts of a trench, including latrine, sandbags, machine gun positions, duckboards, periscopes, firesteps, and barbed wire. Trench Network Management: Discuss how soldiers were rotated through different trenches and the reasons behind this system. No-Man’s Land: Discuss the challenges and horrors of No-Man’s Land, including the difficulties of retrieving bodies and the psychological impact on soldiers. Literature Review: Read an extract from “All Quiet on the Western Front” to understand the demoralising reality of trench warfare. Writing Task: Plan and write a paragraph explaining trench warfare using new vocabulary. Include terms like bolt-action rifles, gas, aircraft, duckboards, artillery, barbed wire, No-Man’s Land, zig-zag trench, support trench, reserve trench, tanks, machine guns, periscope, sandbags, communication trenches, dugouts, and dressing stations. Peer review the paragraphs for accuracy and completeness. Resources: Video clip link Research slides for weapons Simplified trench diagram Literature extract from “All Quiet on the Western Front” Peer review checklist Taken from a series of over 30 First 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. Wolsey Academy operates as a non-profit, with every penny we make going to one of our charity partners or into the Ipswich Initiative, funding good works across the town and county. Search for Wolsey Academy to see our website for more details and to purchase resources at a discount. Use code ‘WOLSEY’ for 10% off at the Wolsey Academy Web Store. Please help us, help you, help them. Thank you. Hope it helps.