This lesson examines and compares the strengths and weaknesses of the Norman and Anglo-Saxon armies in 1066, helping students develop analytical and evaluative historical skills.

The aim of the lesson is for students to assess which army was stronger and more effective by analysing key features such as leadership, tactics, weaponry, training and organisation. Students are encouraged to justify their opinions using evidence and structured argument.

A series of differentiated questions and worksheets guide students through the learning, enabling them to build their understanding before reaching a final judgement on which army was superior.

Argument words and discussion prompts are included to help students develop confident, balanced explanations and historical reasoning skills.

The worksheets contain clear information and visual sources to support accessibility and engagement, making them ideal for both individual and collaborative group work. The activities are designed to encourage discussion, comparison and critical thinking.

The lesson finishes with a fun and interactive “Guess Who?” plenary activity which checks students’ recall and reinforces the key learning from the lesson.

Included in this lesson:
Fully editable PowerPoint
Differentiated worksheets and questions
Comparison of Norman and Anglo-Saxon armies
Focus on evaluation and judgement skills
Argument word bank and discussion prompts
Visual sources and accessible information sheets
Activities suitable for individual or group work
Interactive “Guess Who?” plenary
Suggested teaching strategies

Please review the resource to help with future planning.