Remembering the Past

Overview

A 60-minute interactive lesson designed for Year 5 students (ages 9-10.5) that explores the significance of Remembrance Day. The lesson aligns with the National Curriculum for England’s History programme of study by developing pupils’ understanding of historical events, change, and the impact on people’s lives. This session will build empathy, chronological understanding, and critical thinking through varied activities.

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National Curriculum Links

History Programme of Study - Key Stage 2

• Pupils should be taught to:
  • Understand the chronology of significant events (NC KS2 History)
  • Develop an awareness of the past, using common words and phrases related to the passing of time
  • Know and understand significant aspects of the history of the wider world, such as the causes and consequences of wars
  • Understand the impact of historical events on people’s lives

Key Skills Development:

• Historical enquiry and interpretation
• Empathy and understanding diverse perspectives
• Use of primary and secondary sources
• Communicating historical understanding orally and in written form

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Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils will be able to:

1. Explain why Remembrance Day is observed and its significance in the UK.
2. Place Remembrance Day in chronological context regarding World War I and World War II.
3. Reflect on how Remembrance Day helps people remember those who served and sacrificed in wars.
4. Create a meaningful, respectful symbolic artefact linked to Remembrance Day.

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Resources Needed

• Whiteboard and markers
• Copies of a short, child-appropriate account of WWI/WWII and Remembrance Day (prepared text)
• Images of poppies, war memorials, and Remembrance Day ceremonies
• Paper, red tissue paper, glue, scissors (for poppy craft)
• A large timeline displayed on the classroom wall
• A recording device (optional, for pupils’ oral reflections)
• “Two-minute Silence” song or instrumental (optional)

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Lesson Structure

1. Introduction & Engagement (10 minutes)

• Starter discussion:
  • Ask pupils, “Have you heard of Remembrance Day?” and “What do you already know about it?”
  • Introduce the key terms: remembrance, sacrifice, war, poppy. Write on the board.
• Show images of poppies, war memorials, and a Remembrance Day ceremony.
• Explain briefly what the poppy symbolises and the importance of remembering.

2. Historical Context Activity (15 minutes)

• Read aloud a simple, engaging child-friendly story or passage about the First World War and why Remembrance Day was established (include how it links to 11th November).
• Class timeline activity:
  • Place the dates of WWI, WWII, and Remembrance Day on the timeline.
  • Invite pupils to place sticky notes with key facts or questions on the timeline.
• Discuss briefly: Why do we still remember these events today?

3. Empathy and Reflection (15 minutes)

• Ask pupils to imagine living through war or losing someone. How might they feel?
• Watch or listen to the “Two-minute Silence” instrumental (optional).
• Hold a classroom two-minute silence; afterwards, invite pupils to share thoughts or feelings.
• Discuss how Remembrance Day provides a way to honour those feelings and memories.

4. Creative Application (15 minutes)

• Explain that red poppies are a symbol of remembrance.
• Pupils create their own poppies using red tissue paper, glue, and paper circles.
• While working, ask pupils to think about the message their poppy might send and how it helps people remember.
• Display all poppies on a classroom Remembrance Day display board or create a “Field of Remembrance” wall collage.

5. Plenary and Assessment (5 minutes)

• Ask students to share one new fact they learned about Remembrance Day.
• Quick round: each student says one word or phrase that they associate with Remembrance Day.
• Optional written reflection prompt: “Why do you think it is important to remember those who fought in wars?” (can be completed as homework if time is short)

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Differentiation and Inclusion

• Provide sentence starters and vocabulary cards for pupils who need support with writing or speaking.
• Use paired or group discussions to build confidence in sharing ideas.
• Ensure pictorial and auditory materials support diverse learning styles.
• Adjust craft complexity according to individual fine motor skills, encouraging creativity over perfection.

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Assessment Criteria

• Informal observation during discussions for understanding of Remembrance Day’s purpose.
• Participation in timeline activity to assess chronological awareness.
• Quality and thoughtfulness of poppy craft as symbolic response.
• Verbal or written reflection to gauge empathy and historical understanding.

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Extension Ideas (Optional)

• Invite local veterans or community speakers to share experiences linked to Remembrance Day.
• Research and write letters or poems in memory of soldiers, inspired by war poetry studied in class.
• Plan a whole-school Remembrance Day assembly led by Year 5 pupils using their learning and creations.

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This lesson plan ensures pupils respect and understand Remembrance Day in accordance with the National Curriculum requirements, fostering historical enquiry and empathy whilst developing knowledge of significant events that shape national and global history.