Topic:Where to build a castle?
Key Elements: Chronology
Knowledge and Understanding
Interpretation
Historical Enquiry
Organisation and communication
Key skills: Communication
I.C.T Skills
Mathematical skills /
/ Lesson Objectives
1. Where would you have builta castle and why?
2. Why was the location of a castle important?
Aims: Through playing the role of a king or baron, pupils will examine 5 possible sites to build a castle. Working in pairs pupils will consider the advantages and disadvantages of each site then come to a conclusion as to where they would built their castle and why.
Equipment/Resources:
- PowerPoint Slides
- Worksheets
Lesson
Time
10
minutes
5-10
minutes / Introduction
Step 1: Connect the Learning
Recap on last lesson – linked to discussion uponwhy castles were needed.
Symbol of power
Government
Military base
Shelter
Home
Step 2: The Big Picture
Show examples of castles, emphasising the importance of deciding on a good location when constructing a castle.
e.g.
CaerphillyCastle
ConwyCastle
CaernarfonCastle
BeaumarisCastle
Stage 3: Describe the Learning Outcomes
Introduce the lesson aims
- Where would you have built a castle and why?
- Why was the location of a castle important?
Show map on PowerPoint of the five possible castle sites.
A) Mountain
B) Forest
C) Crossroads - river and road
D) Marsh
E) Village
Ask the class what factors must be considered before a castle is built?
Show possible factors on PowerPoint.
25 - 30 minutes / Stage 5: Activity- The search for meaning
In pairs pupils to discuss and note down the advantages and the disadvantages of each possible castle site.
Chosen pupils will approach the board and mark the site that they consider to be in the best location. They should then explain why they have chosen that location. This will be followed by class discussion on the advantages/disadvantages of the location chosen.
The teacher could question pupils on each castle site using the Bob The BuilderPowerPoint slide. This should generate discussion and clarify knowledge regarding the advantages and disadvantages of each site.
Pupils will answer questions set on the worksheet.
5
minutes / Stage 6: Demonstrate your new understanding
Hot seating. Chose a pupil as a castle builder. He/she has to answer questions (posed by pupils) to explain why the chosen castle was built in a particular location.
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