An introductory presentation to the Ancient Maya and has a real focus on why they are so mysterious. This introduces some basic facts like 'city states' and 'archaeology' to kick-start your study. Use with further information about the organisation of city states, sacrifice and temples to complete a rounded and fully focussed study. The resources at the end of the presentation include a map and a simple timeline and are useful to set pupils thinking.

A KS2 SATs style reading task including text, questions and answers. The text has a cross curricular theme of Viking sagas and can be used as an example of further depth writing. The text can be a stand alone reading task or used as a writing task that can be extended by pupils. Use in KS2 as an example of the new reading paper question types or with any study of the Vikings and Viking sagas.

A fiction text based on the history topic of WW1 trenches and can be used to boost reading in History lessons. It can also be used as an example of writing for pupils to look at the language used. The text is based on a soldier’s memory of being in the trenches with a focus on inference questions.

Investigate the trouble between Thomas Becket and Henry II through evidence in the form of witness statements into the death. Groups can look at the possible statements given by individuals about the rift. Each one gives clues, but when all clues are put together they create a full picture. Use alongside other text book information to fill in extra details or answer questions posed by the activity. There is lots of scope for drama activities or even a court scene scenario. Included are 3 differentiated tasks at the end which ask pupils to create and justify their opinion. The activity encourages pupils to investigate information and for independent conclusions.

Three examples of essay responses for IGCSE style questions for the Changing Nature of Warfare. The essays cover questions on guerrilla warfare, air superiority and nuclear weapons. Each response covers the main themes of tactics, outcomes, technology and weaponry. Use with IGCSE students as examples of answers to question c.