The Battle of the Somme

Understanding 1916

Lesson 3: The course and aftermath of the Battle of the Somme

On this page

Lesson three takes an in-depth look at the Battle of the Somme and the events that led up to one of the war’s bloodiest conflicts. The lesson will explore the actions of the first divisions to go over the top on 1st July 1916, including the 36th (Ulster) Division.

Lesson Intentions

  1. Explore the reasons why the Battle of the Somme was fought: and
  2. Examine the role played by allied forces throughout the battle and the large sacrifices made.

Areas of Learning

Environment and Society

History

Objective 2: Developing pupils as Contributors to Society

Investigate the long and short term causes and consequences of the partition of Ireland and how it has influenced Northern Ireland today including key events and turning points.
(Citizenship)

Investigate the impact of significant events/ideas of the 20th century on the world.
(Cultural Understanding)

Language and Literacy

English with Media Education

Objective 1: Developing pupils as Individuals

Engage, through language, with their peers and with fictional and real-life characters and situations, to explore their own emotions and develop creative potential.
(Personal Understanding)

Explore and respond to others’ emotions as encountered in literature, the media, moving image and peer discussion.
(Mutual Understanding)

Explore the use of language and imagery in conveying and evoking a variety of powerful feelings.
(Spiritual Awareness)

Objective 2: Developing pupils as Contributors to Society

Use literature, drama, poetry or the moving image to explore others’ needs and rights.
(Citizenship)

Explore the power of a range of communication techniques to inform, entertain, influence and persuade.
(Media Awareness)

Irish with Media Education

Objective 1: Developing pupils as Individuals

Engage, through language, with their peers and with fictional and real-life characters and situations, to explore their own emotions and develop creative potential.
(Personal Understanding)

Explore and respond to others’ emotions as encountered in literature, the media, moving image and peer discussion.
(Mutual Understanding)

Develop an understanding of the power of languages (including bi-lingualism and body language) to communicate and empathise with others.
(Mutual Understanding)

Explore the use of language and imagery in conveying and evoking a variety of powerful feelings.
(Spiritual Awareness)

Objective 2: Developing pupils as Contributors to Society

Use literature, drama, poetry or the moving image to explore others’ needs and rights.
(Citizenship)

The Arts

Art and Design

Objective 1: Developing pupils as Individuals

Express themselves through Art and Design.
(Personal Understanding)

Tasks

A number of tasks have been developed in order to help pupils progress in a number of desirable Using ICT skills and Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities. This lesson in particular helps develop their knowledge, understanding and skills by engaging the pupils in a number of active learning activities and digital tasks.

Using ICT

  • Research
  • Working with Images
  • Working with Sound

Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities

  • Managing Information
  • Self-Management
  • Thinking, Decision Making
  • Being Creative
  • Working with Others
In partnership with