The pupils attend a large primary school where the classes are vertically grouped. The history focus for the summer term was the Tudors, although SATs three weeks into the term meant that the history emphasis was lost for a couple of weeks. Work on the Tudors began with explorations of the Tudor family tree; ascertaining what we knew already and posing interesting questions that we hoped to find answers for.

(These resources are attached below)

After SATS we set off to research and produce the play.

The literacy focus was the study of a Shakespeare play and Tudor language. We aimed to produce and perform a version of Shakespeare's The Tempest and to research the traditions of the Elizabethan theatre. In the second half of the term we researched Tudor costume typical of the time, and designed and made costumes for the final performance of The Tempest. As a starting point for our costume design, a costume designer from the Royal Shakespeare Company brought costumes typical of the Tudor period for the children to try on. Examples of sketch designs were also shared with the children, which informed their future planning style.

The actual play was performed at Stokesay Castle [Shropshire] in July. Although this is not a Tudor building, it was felt that it would create a suitable atmosphere in which to perform (and provide an indoor option if it rained!)

by Zoe Percharde

 

Teaching methods Speaking, listening, discussion and debate - Oracy Reading documents Children writing Story-telling Drama Related lessons Tudor portraits: who am I? Urban spaces Literacy and A midsummer nights dream