Celebrating VE Day

Age Group

Year 3 (ages 7-8)

Overview

This two-hour lesson plan integrates outdoor learning through Forest School principles while commemorating Victory in Europe (VE) Day. Students will engage in activities that will promote understanding of this significant historical event, developing their collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking skills.

Objectives

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

• Understand the significance of VE Day and its historical context.
• Demonstrate teamwork through collaborative activities.
• Express their understanding of VE Day through creative mediums (art, drama, written reflection).
• Develop connection to the natural environment through outdoor activities.

Curriculum Framework References

• History: Key Stage 2 (Chronological understanding; Knowledge and understanding of events, people, and changes).
• Art: Key Stage 2 (Developing ideas; exploring and presenting).
• English: Key Stage 2 (Writing for different purposes and genres).

Materials Needed

• Historical resources (books, pictures) about VE Day
• Blank art supplies (A3 paper, paints, crayons)
• Natural materials (sticks, leaves, stones)
• Costumes or props for drama (hats, scarves)
• Storytelling materials (a large sheet of paper for group storytelling)
• First aid kit
• Blankets for sitting on the ground
• Outdoor classroom space or a nearby forested area

Schedule

Introduction (15 minutes)

• Setting the Scene: Begin in the classroom. Introduce VE Day, discuss its significance, and display visual resources (pictures and artefacts) related to VE Day.
• Discussion Prompts: Ask students what they already know about the event and its importance to British history.

Outdoor Activity: Explore Natural Resources (20 minutes)

• Forest Exploration: Take students outside to collect natural materials (leaves, sticks, stones). Encourage them to look for specific shapes or colours reminiscent of the British flag or wartime symbols.
• Reflection: While collecting, discuss how nature was used during the war for camouflage and other purposes.

Storytelling Circle (30 minutes)

• Collaborative Story Creation: Back in the outdoor classroom, sit in a circle. Using the natural materials collected, each student contributes a line to create a collective VE Day story, incorporating historical facts.
• Creative Presentation: Encourage creativity; students can use items from nature as props to act out parts of the story.

Creative Arts Activity (30 minutes)

• Art Creation: Using A3 paper and paints, students will create a visual representation of VE Day. This could be a painting of celebrations, a collage of found items, or an imaginative work inspired by their earlier story.
• Group Collaboration: Allow students to discuss and share their ideas within their groups while they work.

Drama Activity (20 minutes)

• Role Play: In small groups, students create a mini role play based around a scene from their story, focusing on emotions and interactions seen during celebrations after Victory in Europe Day.
• Presentations: Each group presents their role play to the class, promoting speaking and listening skills.

Conclusion and Reflection (15 minutes)

• Class Discussion: Gather in a circle to discuss what they learned about VE Day, the importance of collaboration, and how nature contributed to their activities.
• Reflection through Writing: Ask students to write a short sentence or two about what they enjoyed most about the lesson and why VE Day is important to them.

Assessment

• Continuous observation of student participation and teamwork during activities.
• Assess the creative outputs and storytelling, ensuring students are expressing historical understanding.
• Review reflective writing for individual comprehension of the day’s events and activities.

Differentiation Strategies

• Provide additional support for students who may struggle with writing or participation in discussions.
• Offer extension tasks for more advanced students, such as researching additional VE Day facts to share with the class.

Safety Considerations

• Conduct a risk assessment before outdoor activities.
• Ensure students know boundaries and safety rules while exploring.
• Keep a first aid kit accessible, and be aware of allergies or sensitivities.

Reflection for Educators

• After the lesson, consider what worked well and areas for improvement.
• Reflect on student engagement levels and adjust future activities based on their interests and feedback.

This lesson plan aims to inspire and educate students about VE Day while utilising the benefits of outdoor learning, ensuring a memorable and educational experience.