Gunpowder plot at key stage 1

Lesson Plan

By Carol Dalziel and Jacqui Dean, published 23rd January 2011

Please note: this resource pre-dates the 2014 National Curriculum.

Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot is a cracking tale for any age group, although the complex political and religious elements are difficult for young children to understand. However, we can help them to gain insights into past people's motivations and methods through storytelling, simulation and role-play. I used all three methods in the three lessons described here, with a Year 2 class in Salford.

With the real world around them permeated by political violence, it is unsurprising that the children chose violent methods to gain 'their' political ends. There is definitely a case for following up this topic with a circle time/PSHE discussion about alternative solutions in a democratic society.

(These resources are attached below)

A useful website for background information: Bonfire

Teaching methods

Story-telling
Drama and role-play
Children writing

Speaking, listening, discussion and debate - Oracy

History and citizenship

Link to related lessons on this site ...

The Great Plague of London

The Great Fire of London

Attached files: