Core Skills Analysis
History
- The student learned about the key figures of the Georgian era, exemplified by the eccentric philosopher Jeremy Bentham.
- They were introduced to ancient Roman politics through the character of Crassus, understanding the lifestyle of wealthy politicians during that time.
- The comedic format helped the student engage with historical events, making it easier to remember important concepts.
- Exposure to comparative historical figures, such as Gutenberg and the monks, encourages a critical understanding of technological advancements and their societal impacts.
Philosophy
- Introduction to philosophical ideas presented through Bentham's character, igniting curiosity about ethics and social theory.
- The student's awareness of different philosophical perspectives is expanded, learning how ideas shaped historical contexts.
- Engagement with philosophical concepts in a humorous way helps demystify complex ideas, making them more relatable.
- Encourages questioning and critical thinking about societal norms and the foundation of modern thought.
Literature
- The format of 'Horrible Histories' blends storytelling with factual history, promoting an appreciation for narrative techniques.
- The student learned about character development and engaging dialogue through rap and comedic portrayals.
- Historically themed narratives encourage creative thinking, inspiring the student to explore writing their own historical stories.
- The episodic nature of the show promotes an understanding of plot structure and how humor can enhance storytelling.
Tips
To enhance the student's learning experience, consider organizing discussions about the philosophical ideas presented by Bentham, perhaps leading to a debate on ethics. Incorporating activities like role-playing historical figures can deepen their understanding of the context. For literature skills, encourage the student to write a comedic piece or rap based on a historical event, helping to solidify their narrative skills.
Book Recommendations
- The Boy Who Grew Dragons by Andy Sheppard: A imaginative tale about a boy who discovers a dragon tree and learns valuable lessons about responsibility and friendship.
- The Time Travel Diaries: London by Nick Arnold: An exciting blend of history and fiction, focusing on famous historical periods and encouraging readers to think about history creatively.
- Who Was Johannes Gutenberg? by Paris Rosenthal and Who HQ: An engaging biography that introduces the life of Johannes Gutenberg and his revolutionary invention of the printing press.