Objective

By the end of this lesson, Shawn will have a better understanding of the Irish Potato Famine and its impact on Ireland.

Materials and Prep

Materials needed: pen/pencil, paper, computer/tablet with internet access.

Prep: None

Activities

• Research Time: Use the internet to research and find out more about the Irish Potato Famine. Take notes on important facts.
• Timeline Creation: Create a timeline of the events of the Irish Potato Famine. Include key dates and events.
• Role Play: Act out a scene from the time of the famine. You can be a farmer or a government official discussing the potato blight.
• Art Project: Draw a picture that represents the impact of the potato famine on the people of Ireland.

Talking Points

• What was the Irish Potato Famine?
  "The Irish Potato Famine was a period in the 1840s when a disease destroyed the potato crops in Ireland, leading to a severe food shortage."
• Why were potatoes important to the Irish people?
  "Potatoes were a staple food for many Irish people because they were nutritious, easy to grow, and could feed a family."
• How did the potato blight affect the Irish population?
  "The potato blight caused a widespread famine, leading to starvation, disease, and mass emigration from Ireland."
• What were some of the long-term effects of the Irish Potato Famine?
  "The famine had lasting effects on Ireland, including a decline in population, changes in land ownership, and increased poverty."