Discovering William the Conqueror: Lessons from Horrible Histories for Young Historians

Core Skills Analysis

History

• The student learned about the key historical figures involved in the Battle of Hastings, specifically William, Duke of Normandy, and Harold Godwinson.
• They gained insight into the political conflict over the English crown during the 11th century.
• The 25-minute special explains the significance of the Battle of Hastings and its impact on English history.
• The depiction of events as a quarrel illustrates the dramatic tension surrounding the historical narrative, helping the student connect emotionally with the material.

Critical Thinking

• The student was introduced to the concept of historical perspective, considering the motives and actions of both William and Harold.
• Watching the dramatization encourages the student to evaluate the reliability of historical sources based on interpretation.
• The humorous elements in 'Horrible Histories' prompts the student to think critically about how history is presented and remembered.
• The engaging format of the show may lead the student to question 'What if?' scenarios regarding other historical events.

Tips

To enhance the child’s learning experience, consider following up with discussions about the implications of William's conquest on modern England. Encourage the student to research other historical figures or events that had significant impacts on nations. Exploring interactive resources like timelines, maps of Norman conquests, or even visiting a local castle could further deepen knowledge. Additionally, incorporating creativity through storytelling or role-play can solidify their understanding and make historical events more relatable.

Book Recommendations

• The Battle of Hastings by M. C. Ross: A detailed yet age-appropriate exploration of the events surrounding the Battle of Hastings.
• William the Conqueror: The Norman King by James Todd: This book provides an engaging narrative about William’s life, his rise to power, and the eventual conquest of England.
• Horrible Histories: The Terrible Tudors by Terry Deary: Part of the Horrible Histories series, this book continues the fun learning style with more about English history for young readers.