In this lesson, students explore the Dissolution of the Monasteries, initiated by Henry VIII and carried out by Thomas Cromwell, as part of the English Reformation. Activities include video analysis, creating a ‘Diamond 9’ ranking of monastic services, and discussing the economic, social, and cultural impacts. Students will engage in guided reading on the redistribution of monastic lands, the shift towards a more secular culture, and the establishment of the Church of England. The lesson aims to highlight the multifaceted effects of the dissolution on local communities, the economy, and religious practices in Tudor England. Taken from a series of 20 lessons on Tudor England. They provide an thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of European 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. Those lessons are: Battle of Bosworth 1485 Henry VII John Cabot Henry VIII & Catherine of Aragon Thomas Wolsey’s Reforms Anne Boleyn Rise of Cromwell Dissolution of the Monasteries Pilgrimage of Grace 1536 Henry VIII & His Wives Edward VI’s Reformation Bloody Mary Elizabeth I – Overview Elizabeth I – Challenges Sir Francis Drake Sir Walter Raleigh Spanish Armada The Mary Rose Shakespeare Wolsey’s Ipswich 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

In this lesson, students explore the marriage between Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon, examining its political significance and the personal challenges it faced. Activities include video analysis, guided reading on their relationship, and a deep dive into the cultural and political implications of their union. Students will write scripts for conversations between Henry and Thomas Wolsey, engage in peer assessments, and participate in role-plays to understand the benefits and risks of royal alliances. The lesson aims to highlight the importance of dynastic marriages in Tudor diplomacy and the impact of Henry and Catherine’s marriage on England and Spain. Taken from a series of 20 lessons on Tudor England. They provide an thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of European 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. Those lessons are: Battle of Bosworth 1485 Henry VII John Cabot Henry VIII & Catherine of Aragon Thomas Wolsey’s Reforms Anne Boleyn Rise of Cromwell Dissolution of the Monasteries Pilgrimage of Grace 1536 Henry VIII & His Wives Edward VI’s Reformation Bloody Mary Elizabeth I – Overview Elizabeth I – Challenges Sir Francis Drake Sir Walter Raleigh Spanish Armada The Mary Rose Shakespeare Wolsey’s Ipswich 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

In this lesson, students explore the life and significance of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Queen Elizabeth I. Activities include video analysis of her role in the English Reformation, sorting timeline cards of key events, and a deep dive into her influence on the religious landscape. Students will also engage in discussions on her legacy, write comparative analyses of historical perspectives, and complete a recap quiz. The lesson aims to highlight Anne Boleyn’s impact on Tudor history, her contribution to the Church of England’s formation, and her tragic downfall. Taken from a series of 20 lessons on Tudor England. They provide an thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of European 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. Those lessons are: Battle of Bosworth 1485 Henry VII John Cabot Henry VIII & Catherine of Aragon Thomas Wolsey’s Reforms Anne Boleyn Rise of Cromwell Dissolution of the Monasteries Pilgrimage of Grace 1536 Henry VIII & His Wives Edward VI’s Reformation Bloody Mary Elizabeth I – Overview Elizabeth I – Challenges Sir Francis Drake Sir Walter Raleigh Spanish Armada The Mary Rose Shakespeare Wolsey’s Ipswich 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

In this lesson, students learn about Sir Walter Raleigh’s expeditions and role in the colonisation of the Americas. Activities include video analysis of his voyages, myth-busting discussions on his life, and investigating the Lost Colony of Roanoke through clues and evidence. Students will write fictional postcards from Raleigh, participate in debate sessions on his contributions, and create maps detailing his journeys. Taken from a series of 20 lessons on Tudor England. They provide an thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of European 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. Those lessons are: Battle of Bosworth 1485 Henry VII John Cabot Henry VIII & Catherine of Aragon Thomas Wolsey’s Reforms Anne Boleyn Rise of Cromwell Dissolution of the Monasteries Pilgrimage of Grace 1536 Henry VIII & His Wives Edward VI’s Reformation Bloody Mary Elizabeth I – Overview Elizabeth I – Challenges Sir Francis Drake Sir Walter Raleigh Spanish Armada The Mary Rose Shakespeare Wolsey’s Ipswich 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

In this lesson, students explore the lives and significance of Henry VIII’s six wives: Katherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Catherine Howard, and Katheryn Parr. Activities include video analysis to learn the order and fates of the wives, deep dive extended writing on specific questions, and creating detailed fact files for each queen. Students will also engage in a gallery walk to present and read classmates’ fact files, and complete a recap quiz. The lesson aims to highlight the personal and political reasons behind Henry’s marriages and the impact each wife had on Tudor history. Taken from a series of 20 lessons on Tudor England. They provide an thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of European 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. Those lessons are: Battle of Bosworth 1485 Henry VII John Cabot Henry VIII & Catherine of Aragon Thomas Wolsey’s Reforms Anne Boleyn Rise of Cromwell Dissolution of the Monasteries Pilgrimage of Grace 1536 Henry VIII & His Wives Edward VI’s Reformation Bloody Mary Elizabeth I – Overview Elizabeth I – Challenges Sir Francis Drake Sir Walter Raleigh Spanish Armada The Mary Rose Shakespeare Wolsey’s Ipswich 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

In this lesson, students study the continuation of the Protestant Reformation under Edward VI. Activities include video analysis of key changes, examining the introduction of the Book of Common Prayer, and discussions on the impact of iconoclasm and other reforms. Students will participate in debates on the Reformation’s effects, create visual timelines of religious changes, and engage in group projects to explore the social implications of Edward VI’s policies. Taken from a series of 20 lessons on Tudor England. They provide an thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of European 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. Those lessons are: Battle of Bosworth 1485 Henry VII John Cabot Henry VIII & Catherine of Aragon Thomas Wolsey’s Reforms Anne Boleyn Rise of Cromwell Dissolution of the Monasteries Pilgrimage of Grace 1536 Henry VIII & His Wives Edward VI’s Reformation Bloody Mary Elizabeth I – Overview Elizabeth I – Challenges Sir Francis Drake Sir Walter Raleigh Spanish Armada The Mary Rose Shakespeare Wolsey’s Ipswich 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

In this lesson, students explore Sir Francis Drake’s voyages and his pivotal role in defeating the Spanish Armada. Activities include map analysis to chart his journeys, creating detailed expedition logs, and discussing his legacy as a naval commander. Students will participate in reenactments of naval battles, create diary entries from the perspective of a sailor, and engage in group discussions on Drake’s impact on Tudor England. Taken from a series of 20 lessons on Tudor England. They provide an thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of European 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. Those lessons are: Battle of Bosworth 1485 Henry VII John Cabot Henry VIII & Catherine of Aragon Thomas Wolsey’s Reforms Anne Boleyn Rise of Cromwell Dissolution of the Monasteries Pilgrimage of Grace 1536 Henry VIII & His Wives Edward VI’s Reformation Bloody Mary Elizabeth I – Overview Elizabeth I – Challenges Sir Francis Drake Sir Walter Raleigh Spanish Armada The Mary Rose Shakespeare Wolsey’s Ipswich 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

In this lesson, students study the Mary Rose warship and its significance in Tudor naval history, including its construction, role in Henry VIII’s navy, and sinking. Activities include virtual tours of the ship, examining artefacts recovered from the wreck, and discussions on naval strategies. Students will create 3D models of the ship, write fictional diary entries from a sailor’s perspective, and engage in group presentations on the ship’s historical context. Taken from a series of 20 lessons on Tudor England. They provide an thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of European 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. Those lessons are: Battle of Bosworth 1485 Henry VII John Cabot Henry VIII & Catherine of Aragon Thomas Wolsey’s Reforms Anne Boleyn Rise of Cromwell Dissolution of the Monasteries Pilgrimage of Grace 1536 Henry VIII & His Wives Edward VI’s Reformation Bloody Mary Elizabeth I – Overview Elizabeth I – Challenges Sir Francis Drake Sir Walter Raleigh Spanish Armada The Mary Rose Shakespeare Wolsey’s Ipswich 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 focuses on the Gallipoli Campaign during World War I, from April 1915 to January 1916. Students will explore the strategic objectives, key participants, and outcomes of the campaign. Activities include analysing key figures, watching a video summary, guided reading, a relay activity, and a storyboard creation task. The lesson concludes with a PEEKA writing task to summarise the consequences of the campaign and a peer assessment activity. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Overview of the Gallipoli Campaign, including the involved countries and main objectives. What Happened: Discuss the timeline and key events of the campaign. Identify the roles of Kemal Ataturk, Winston Churchill, and the ANZACs. Video Activity: Watch a video summarising the Gallipoli Campaign. Write a short summary covering causes, events, and consequences. Guided Reading: Complete a guided reading activity with provided text. Subtitle each paragraph. Write down three key facts. Highlight and define any unknown words. Document Analysis: Read and summarise historical documents. Complete a table showing how each document provides evidence of the campaign’s significance. Relay Activity: Participate in a relay activity to recreate a diagram of the battle events. Lessons Learned and Application to D-Day: Discuss the lessons learned from the Gallipoli Campaign and how they were applied to the D-Day landings. Storyboard Activity: Create a storyboard for a documentary on the Gallipoli Campaign, focusing on key scenes. Writing Task: Use the PEEKA structure to write paragraphs explaining the consequences of the Gallipoli Campaign. Incorporate evidence from the video and documents analysed. Peer Assessment: Peer assess partners’ paragraphs, focusing on historical skills and content. Resources: Video link Guided reading text Historical documents (reports, photographs) PEEKA planning sheet Writing prompts and sentence stems 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 Harlem Hellfighters, an African American infantry unit in World War I. Students will learn about their experiences, challenges, and contributions through source analysis and class discussions. Activities include examining primary sources, discussing the historical context of racial discrimination, and understanding the significance of the Hellfighters’ bravery. The lesson concludes with a source analysis task to evaluate the reliability and perspectives of different historical sources. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Overview of the Harlem Hellfighters and their role in WWI. Discussion of the racial discrimination faced by African Americans in 1914. Who Were They: Introduction to the 369th Infantry Regiment and their nickname “Hellfighters.” African Americans in 1914: Discuss the quote highlighting the discrimination faced by African Americans. Identify problems from the quote. The First World War: Explain the enlistment of 350,000 African Americans and the discrimination within the US Army. Discuss General Pershing’s role and the assignment of the 369th to French command. Under French Command: Explore the experiences of the Harlem Hellfighters in combat and their commendations. Compare their treatment in France versus the USA. Source Analysis: Examine seven historical sources related to the Harlem Hellfighters. Write paragraphs analysing each source’s content, purpose, and reliability. Source Analysis Example: Provide an example analysis of Source A. Discuss as a class which sources are most useful in understanding the significance of the Harlem Hellfighters. Group Activity: Debate and vote on the top three most useful sources. Resources: Primary sources (poster, photograph, painting, reports) Source analysis worksheet Guided discussion questions 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 life and impact of Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Students will learn about his early life, military career, and the reforms he introduced to modernise Turkey. Activities include video analysis, timeline sorting, a deep dive into his legacy, and a PEEKA writing task. The lesson concludes with a discussion on historical perspectives and a peer assessment activity. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Overview of Kemal Atatürk’s life and achievements. Discuss the year of his birth and the establishment of the secular republic in 1923. Video Analysis: Watch videos about Atatürk and answer questions on his life, achievements, and impact. Key Terms: Define and discuss terms like republic, secular, and reforms. Timeline Activity: Sort timeline cards in chronological order to understand the sequence of Atatürk’s life events and achievements. Deep Dive into Atatürk’s Legacy: Read and answer questions about Atatürk’s key reforms, military career, the Treaty of Lausanne, and his emphasis on secularism. Impact on WWI: Discuss Atatürk’s significant contributions during the First World War. Discussion Task: Rank the significance of Atatürk’s founding of modern Turkey, his modernising reforms, and his nationalist leadership. Historical Perspectives: Analyse how historians view Atatürk’s legacy and write a paragraph on their agreement and disagreement using provided sentence starters. Peer Assessment: Peer review partners’ paragraphs focusing on agreement, evidence, disagreement, and overall quality. Recap Quiz: Quiz on key facts about Atatürk’s life, his reforms, and his legacy. Resources: Video links Printable timeline cards Deep dive writing sheet PEEKA planning sheet Recap quiz questions 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 covers the Armenian Genocide during World War I, examining the events between 1915 and 1917. Students will explore the definition of genocide, the causes and key figures involved, and the consequences for the Armenian population. Activities include watching a video summary, guided reading with key fact identification, and analysing historical documents to understand the motives and means behind the genocide. The lesson concludes with a writing task using the PEEKA structure to summarise the events. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Brief overview of the Ottoman Empire during WWI. Definition of genocide using the UN’s Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. What Happened: Discuss the timeline and key events of the Armenian Genocide. Identify the role of Talaat Pasha and the Temporary Law of Deportation. Video Activity: Watch a video summarising the Armenian Genocide. Write a short summary covering causes, events, and consequences. Guided Reading: Complete a guided reading activity with provided text. Subtitle each paragraph. Write down three key facts. Highlight and define any unknown words. Document Analysis: Read and summarise historical documents (e.g., manifestos, reports, photographs). Complete a table showing how each document provides evidence of the genocide. Writing Task: Use the PEEKA structure to write paragraphs explaining the causes, events, and consequences of the genocide. Incorporate evidence from the video and documents analysed. Resources: Video link Guided reading text Historical documents (Manifestos, reports, photographs) PEEKA planning sheet Writing prompts and sentence stems 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 long-term causes of World War I, focusing on militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism (MAIN). Students will examine historical factors leading to the war, analyse primary sources, and discuss how these factors increased tensions in Europe. Activities include a think-pair-share discussion, timeline sorting, MAIN factor analysis, and PEEL paragraph writing. The lesson concludes with a ranking activity to evaluate the importance of each factor. Lesson Content and Activities: Introduction: Discussion on the reasons for war and whether it is ever justified. Think-pair-share activity on why humans go to war. Europe in 1914: Overview of the relative peace in Europe since 1815 and the changes in military technology. Definition of Long-Term Factors: Explanation of historical factors and the difference between short-term and long-term factors. Short- or Long-Term Factors: Activity to differentiate between short-term and long-term historical events. MAIN Factors: Introduction to militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism as the MAIN causes of WWI. Worksheet activity to analyse each MAIN factor and rate their importance. Which MAIN Was It Mainly? Read statements and identify whether they reflect militarism, alliances, imperialism, or nationalism. PEEL Paragraph Writing: Practice writing PEEL paragraphs on the long-term causes of WWI using militarism as an example. Write a PEEL paragraph on another MAIN factor and peer review partners’ paragraphs. Ranking Activity: Work with a partner to rank the MAIN factors in order of importance. Discuss and justify rankings. Resources: MAIN factor worksheet Timeline cards PEEL paragraph examples and planning sheet 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 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 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 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 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 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 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