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Year 8 - English

Reading an Anglo-Saxon Bible extract

A history of language

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils explore the history of the English Language. They first learn about the development of the English Language, before using a single word and the Lord's Prayer to explore how language changes. They then plan, write and deliver a persuasive speech about a new word.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to use reading skills to comprehend an extract from the Bible written in Old English.

Key Notes

  • The Anglo-Saxons inhabited Great Britain from the 5th Century.
  • The Anglo-Saxons included people from Germanic tribes, who migrated from mainland Europe.
  • The Anglo-Saxons were very important in the development of Old English.
  • Whilst a lot of words have changed over the years, modern words linked to the church are similar to Old English.
  • A noun appositive is a phrase that gives a piece of extra information about a noun.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Anglo-Saxons: The Anglo-Saxons were Germanic tribes that conquered England in the 5th century.
  • Old English: Old English was an early version of English spoken in the Middle Ages.
  • Translate: To translate something means to change it from one language to another.
  • Forbidden: If something is forbidden it is not allowed.
  • Paradise: A paradise is a place of great happiness. It can also refer to heaven.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • That Old English was created exclusively by the Anglo-Saxons.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

The Anglo-Saxons inhabited Great Britain from the 5th Century. The Anglo-Saxons included people from Germanic tribes, who migrated from mainland Europe.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'Anglo-Saxons'

The Anglo-Saxons were Germanic tribes that conquered England in the 5th century.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: That Old English was created exclusively by the Anglo-Saxons. Correction: The Anglo-Saxons' Germanic languages contributed to Old English but languages already spoken in Britain – and Latin – also played a part.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 8 English guide library.