The Resistance: Alfred and the Danelaw · AD 871 – AD 924
The Burh System
Exploring Alfred's innovative network of fortified towns designed to defend against future raids.
Key Questions
- 1How did the burhs work as a defensive system?
- 2How did many of these burhs become modern English towns?
- 3Why was a permanent navy also necessary for defense?
National Curriculum Attainment Targets
KS2: History - Viking and Anglo-Saxon struggle for the Kingdom of EnglandKS2: History - Settlements and Land Use
Year: Year 5
Subject: History
Unit: The Resistance: Alfred and the Danelaw
Period: AD 871 – AD 924
Suggested Methodologies
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Alfred in the Marshes
The story of King Alfred's retreat to Athelney and his preparation for a counter-attack.
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The Battle of Edington and the Treaty
Analysing the decisive victory over Guthrum and the creation of the Danelaw.
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Alfred the Scholar
Looking at Alfred's efforts to promote literacy and translate Latin texts into Old English.
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Athelstan: The First King of All England
Following the campaigns of Alfred's grandson to unite the kingdoms into a single nation.
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