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Year 1 - History

A princess in wartime Britain

Changes within living memory: what changed during Elizabeth II's lifetime?

Unit Summary

This unit helps students understand a time span covering four generations before their birth. It teaches about Queen Elizabeth II's reign, offering a simple overview of c.80 years of British history. Students also learn how a major public figure holds authority and performs national duties.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to describe what life was like for Princess Elizabeth during WWII.

Key Notes

  • Elizabeth was a child when war began.
  • London was dangerous.
  • The royal family stayed to show courage.
  • Elizabeth learned about duty.
  • This was long before our families were born.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • princess: a king or queen's daughter
  • war: when groups of people fight one another
  • London: the capital city of the United Kingdom
  • safer: less likely to be harmed
  • courage: being brave

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Pupils might think that Elizabeth fought in the war.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Summarise this historical learning in two key ideas.

Elizabeth was a child when war began. London was dangerous.

2. Define this history term and explain why it matters in this topic. 'princess'

a king or queen's daughter.

3. Correct this common history misconception using evidence language.

Mistake: Pupils might think that Elizabeth fought in the war. Correction: Remind pupils that when war began she was still a child; her job was to stay safe and learn how to be a future queen.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 1 History guide library.