The aim of this lesson is to assess the importance of exploration, overseas trade and Elizabethan seafarers in establishing England as an emerging world power.

Students begin by investigating how England expanded its influence during Elizabeth I’s reign through exploration, trade and naval enterprise. They examine why overseas voyages became increasingly important after Elizabeth’s excommunication by the Pope in 1570, encouraging England to seek new markets, wealth and allies beyond Catholic Europe.

Students explore the achievements of Sir Francis Drake, Sir John Hawkins and Sir Walter Raleigh, evaluating their contributions to exploration, privateering, colonisation and England’s growing naval reputation. Through source analysis, video clips and engaging classroom activities, students decide who deserves a place in the Elizabethan Seafarers Hall of Fame, justifying their choices with evidence.

The lesson also investigates the growth of Elizabethan trade, including the development of the Muscovy Company, Levant Company and East India Company.
Students discover how these trading companies opened new markets and brought valuable goods such as spices, silk, porcelain and other luxury imports to England, increasing the country’s wealth and international influence.

A fun ‘Play Your Cards Right’ activity reinforces learning before students apply their knowledge to a choice of two GCSE exam questions. They develop their skills in answering the “Explain the Importance” question before peer assessing their work using structured success criteria.

An enquiry question is introduced at the start of the lesson and revisited throughout, enabling students to track their progress and deepen their understanding of exploration, trade and England’s growing global influence.

Fully planned and ready to teach, this lesson develops historical enquiry, significance, interpretation and GCSE exam technique.

Included in this lesson:
Fully editable PowerPoint
Elizabethan exploration and overseas trade
Sir Francis Drake, Sir John Hawkins and Sir Walter Raleigh
The Muscovy, Levant and East India Companies
Navigation, trade routes and global expansion
Source analysis
‘Play Your Cards Right’ retrieval activity
GCSE “Explain the Importance” questions with peer assessment, structured writing support with model answers
Differentiated materials with suggested teaching strategies

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