Core Skills Analysis
History
Harry learned about Vikings and medieval times by exploring historical fighting styles, weapons, and clothing. The activity helped Harry connect everyday objects and practices with life in the past. Seeing a live sword-fighting demonstration gave Harry a vivid example of how combat could be represented, building on the historical topics introduced during the session.
Art and Design
Harry designed a shield, applying creativity to an object associated with the historical period. This gave Harry a chance to make choices about the shield’s appearance and consider how visual design could communicate an idea. Creating a shield also helped turn the history session into a hands-on design experience.
Tips
Tips
Build on Harry’s interest by looking at images of historical shields and discussing how their shapes, colours, and symbols differ. Invite Harry to draw a shield design and explain the choices behind it, then make a version from cardboard or other safe craft materials. For a movement-based extension, create a simple timeline that places the topics from the session—clothing, weapons, fighting styles, and shields—in a medieval-history sequence. Keep any discussion or reenactment of combat focused on observation and safety.
Book Recommendations
- DK Eyewitness Books: Viking by Susan M. Margeson: An illustrated introduction to Viking life, objects, clothing, and history that connects with the session’s topics.
- Viking Tales by Jennie Hall: A collection of retold Norse stories that offers an accessible way to explore Viking storytelling and culture.
- Castle: Medieval Days and Knights by Kyle Olmon: An illustrated look at medieval castles and knights, extending the session’s exploration of medieval life and combat.
Try This Next
- Shield-design prompt: Draw a shield and write a few sentences explaining its colours, shapes, and symbols.
- History quiz: Match pictures or descriptions of clothing, weapons, and shields to the topics Harry explored.
- Observation activity: After viewing a sword-fighting demonstration, sketch one movement and describe it using safe, non-combat language.