Gunpowder plot at key stage 1

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.

by Carol Dalziel and Jacqui Dean

A useful website for background information:Bonfire.