Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
4th Class Explorers and Empires: A Journey Through Time
This course introduces 4th Class students to the lives of people in the past through evidence and storytelling. Students develop historical empathy and chronological awareness by investigating ancient civilizations, local heritage, and the impact of major historical shifts on everyday life.
01The World of the Ancients
An exploration of the social structures, beliefs, and daily lives of people in Ancient Egypt and Rome.
Investigating how the geography of Egypt influenced the development of one of the world's first great civilizations.
Exploring the role of pharaohs, the construction of pyramids, and the social hierarchy of Ancient Egypt.
Examining the religious beliefs, gods, and mummification practices of Ancient Egypt.
Investigating the origins of Rome, its transition from monarchy to republic, and key figures.
Examining the organization of the Roman legions and how they maintained control over a vast empire.
Exploring the innovations in Roman building, roads, aqueducts, and their lasting legacy.
A look at the entertainment, food, and housing of citizens in a Roman city.
Investigating the various factors that led to the decline and eventual collapse of the Western Roman Empire.
Learning to distinguish between primary and secondary sources and understanding their importance in historical inquiry.
02Medieval Life and Castles
Studying the feudal system, the construction of castles, and the lives of knights and peasants in Medieval Europe.
An overview of Europe after the fall of Rome, including the rise of new kingdoms and the influence of the Church.
Understanding the social hierarchy and the duties of different classes in medieval society.
Exploring the daily routines, farming practices, and community life of medieval peasants.
Analyzing the architectural features of motte and bailey and stone castles.
Exploring the training of a knight and the code of conduct they were expected to follow.
Investigating the growth of towns, the role of guilds, and the development of trade routes.
Studying the causes, spread, and devastating social and economic consequences of the Black Death.
Exploring the Norman invasion of Ireland and its impact on Irish society and culture.
03The Age of Exploration
Investigating the voyages of discovery and the impact of European explorers on the wider world.
An introduction to the Renaissance as a period of renewed interest in art, science, and learning.
Examining the new technologies that allowed explorers to travel further than ever before.
Studying the Portuguese voyages around Africa and the establishment of new trade routes.
A study of the 1492 voyage and its consequences for both Europe and the Americas.
Analyzing the global transfer of plants, animals, and diseases between the Old and New Worlds.
Exploring the first voyage to circumnavigate the globe and its geographical discoveries.
Investigating the Spanish conquest of the Aztec and Inca empires and its consequences.
Understanding the origins and devastating impact of the forced migration of Africans to the Americas.
Exploring the lives of pirates and privateers during the Age of Exploration and their role in maritime history.
04Life in the 18th and 19th Centuries
Focusing on the Industrial Revolution and the Great Famine in Ireland.
Examining new farming methods and technologies that paved the way for the Industrial Revolution.
How the invention of the steam engine transformed work and transport.
Investigating the harsh working conditions in early factories and the use of child labour.
Exploring the rapid growth of cities, their challenges, and the emergence of new social classes.
Investigating the causes and devastating effects of the potato blight in the 1840s.
Examining the demographic, social, and cultural changes brought about by the Famine.
The story of the millions who left Ireland in search of a better life in America and beyond.
An overview of the British Empire, social reforms, and daily life during Queen Victoria's reign.
05Local Studies and Heritage
Investigating the history of the local community and how it has changed over generations.
Researching the history of the school building and the experiences of past pupils.
Identifying and researching significant historical sites in the local area.
Exploring personal identity by looking at family origins and traditions.
Learning how to conduct interviews with older family members or community elders to gather historical information.
Using old maps and photographs to trace changes in the local landscape and infrastructure.
Exploring unique traditions, stories, and folklore specific to the local community.
An introduction to archaeological methods and the discovery of ancient sites in the local area.
Researching and presenting on significant individuals from the local community who made a historical impact.