Edward the Confessor and the Succession Crisis
Exploring the events leading up to the Battle of Hastings, focusing on the contenders for the English throne.
Key Questions
- Explain why there was a succession crisis in 1066 after Edward the Confessor's death.
- Compare the claims of the three main contenders for the English throne.
- Predict how different outcomes of the succession crisis might have changed English history.
National Curriculum Attainment Targets
About This Topic
The Battle of Hastings in 1066 is perhaps the most famous date in English history, marking the end of the Anglo-Saxon era and the start of Norman rule. For Year 4 students, this topic explores the 'succession crisis' that followed the death of Edward the Confessor and the three-way fight for the throne between Harold Godwinson, Harald Hardrada, and William of Normandy.
Students will analyse the tactics of the battle itself, the famous Anglo-Saxon 'shield wall' on Senlac Hill and how the Normans eventually broke it using 'feigned retreats' and archers. This topic aligns with the KS2 History focus on the 'Norman Conquest'. It introduces the idea of a 'turning point' where a single day changed the language, laws, and landscape of England forever. This topic benefits from active learning where students can 'read' the Bayeux Tapestry and simulate the tactical shifts of the battle.
Active Learning Ideas
Inquiry Circle: The Bayeux Tapestry
In small groups, students are given sections of the tapestry. They must act as 'detectives' to find clues about the weapons used, the importance of horses, and the moment King Harold was killed. They then present their 'scene' to the class.
Simulation Game: The Shield Wall at Hastings
The class forms a tight shield wall at the top of a 'hill' (a designated area). A few 'Norman' students try to tempt them to break the line by pretending to run away. They discuss why the wall was so hard to beat and why breaking it was a fatal mistake.
Think-Pair-Share: The Three Claimants
Students are given the 'CVs' of Harold, William, and Harald Hardrada. They pair up to decide who had the strongest claim to the throne and who they would have supported if they were on the Witan in 1066.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionHarold was killed by an arrow in his eye.
What to Teach Instead
The Bayeux Tapestry is unclear; it might show him being cut down by a knight. Peer 'visual analysis' of the tapestry helps students see that historical evidence can often be interpreted in different ways.
Common MisconceptionThe Normans won because they were 'better' fighters.
What to Teach Instead
The Anglo-Saxons were exhausted after fighting another battle in the North just days before. Using a 'fatigue meter' on a map of 1066 helps students understand the role of timing and luck in history.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Battle of Hastings happen?
How did the Normans win the battle?
How can active learning help students understand 1066?
What was the Bayeux Tapestry?
Planning templates for History
5E Model
The 5E Model structures lessons through five phases (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate), guiding students from curiosity to deep understanding through inquiry-based learning.
unit plannerThematic Unit
Organize a multi-week unit around a central theme or essential question that cuts across topics, texts, and disciplines, helping students see connections and build deeper understanding.
rubricSingle-Point Rubric
Build a single-point rubric that defines only the "meets standard" level, leaving space for teachers to document what exceeded and what fell short. Simple to create, easy for students to understand.
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