Discovering the Vikings

Overview

This engaging lesson introduces students to the fascinating world of the Vikings, focusing on their culture, exploration, and impact on history. Students will engage in a hands-on experience to enrich their understanding.

Age Group

Key Stage 2 (Year 4, 9-10 years old)

Duration

40 minutes

Curriculum Framework

This lesson aligns with the National Curriculum for History in the UK, specifically focusing on:

• KS2 History – A local history study
• Understand the significant aspects of history e.g. the Viking era, their society, and their journeys.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Identify key characteristics of Viking culture.
2. Discuss the significance of Viking exploration.
3. Create a simple Viking ship model demonstrating an understanding of their maritime skills.

Materials Needed

• Printed worksheets with Viking facts and images
• Craft materials (cardboard, scissors, glue, and markers)
• A large piece of blue cloth or paper (to represent water)
• Viking helmets (optional for role play)
• Projector (for visual aids)
• A timer

Lesson Structure

1. Introduction (5 minutes)

Objective: Set the stage for learning.

• Begin with a quick discussion on what students already know about Vikings. Record their answers on the board.
• Introduce the topic using engaging visuals (slides or images of Viking ships, helmets, and artifacts).
• Pose questions to stimulate curiosity: “Why do you think the Vikings were so successful at exploring?”

2. Direct Instruction (10 minutes)

Objective: Provide foundational knowledge.

• Present a brief overview of Viking history, focusing on:
  • Origins in Scandinavia.
  • Lifestyle and culture (farming, crafts, and community).
  • Exploration and raids on Europe.
• Use a projector to show maps of Viking routes and settlements.
• Explain the impact of Viking trades, both positive and negative, on local populations.

3. Group Activity: Create A Viking Ship (20 minutes)

Objective: Hands-on learning to reinforce understanding.

Instructions

• Divide the class into five small groups (5 students each).

1. Crafting the Ships (15 minutes)

   • Distribute craft materials to each group.
   • Instruct students to design and build a simple Viking ship model. Encourage them to consider key features such as:
     • A flat bottom for shallow waters.
     • A dragon head for decoration.
   • Circulate to assist groups, encouraging discussion about why each feature is important for Viking seafaring.

2. Presentation (5 minutes)

   • Have each group briefly present their ship to the class (1 minute each).
   • Encourage them to share:
     • Unique features of their ship.
     • What they learned about Viking maritime skills.

4. Conclusion and Reflection (5 minutes)

Objective: Reinforce learning and gather feedback.

• Summarise the lesson by asking direct questions:
  • “What surprised you about the Vikings?”
  • “Why do you think they are often portrayed as fierce warriors?”
• Distribute an exit ticket with one question: “What is one thing you learned today about Vikings that you didn’t know before?”
• Collect exit tickets as students leave.

Assessment

• Observe group participation during the ship-building activity.
• Assess presentations for understanding and engagement.
• Review exit tickets for comprehension of key concepts discussed.

Additional Notes

• Consider using role play by allowing students to wear Viking helmets during the ship presentation for added engagement.
• Ensure that students who struggle with fine motor skills are supported with pre-cut materials.

This lesson not only introduces students to Viking history but also fosters teamwork, critical thinking, and creativity, making it a memorable and informative experience.