Please note: this resource pre-dates the 2014 National Curriculum.

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.

(These resources are attached below)

A useful website for background information: Bonfire. 

Teaching methods Story-telling Drama and role-play Children writing Speaking, listening, discussion and debate - Oracy History and citizenship Link to related lessons on this site ... The Great Plague of London The Great Fire of London