The aim of this lesson is to distinguish between inoculation and vaccination before assessing the significance of Edward Jenner’s discovery of vaccination for smallpox and its impact on medicine over time.

Students begin by exploring the difference between inoculation and vaccination, before studying Edward Jenner’s work and the scientific discovery that led to the development of the smallpox vaccination. Students use documentary and video evidence to develop their understanding of Jenner’s discovery and the importance of his work.

Students then answer questions about Jenner’s discovery, explaining why it was significant and how his work contributed to changes in the prevention of disease. Students also consider the significance of Jenner’s work at the time, over time and today, helping them develop the historical skill of assessing significance.

The lesson also explores the factors that helped Jenner make his discovery, including individual brilliance, science and technology, communication, chance and government. Students link these factors to Jenner’s story and consider how far each factor contributed to the development of vaccination. Model answers are provided to support students’ understanding.

Students also analyse source information about Jenner and complete an 8-mark GCSE source question, with scaffolding provided to help students construct a well-developed response. A model answer is included to demonstrate how students can use the source and their own knowledge effectively.

The lesson explores the criticism and opposition faced by Jenner, allowing students to understand that new medical discoveries were not always immediately accepted. Students consider why Jenner received criticism despite the importance of his work and how this affected the development and
acceptance of vaccination.

The lesson finishes with a True or False quiz to test students’ knowledge and a ‘Have I Got News for You?’ plenary, providing an engaging way to review the key learning from the lesson.

An enquiry question is introduced at the start of the lesson using a lightbulb key question and revisited at the end, allowing students to track their progress and reach a judgement about the significance of Edward Jenner and his discovery of vaccination.

Included in this lesson:
Fully editable PowerPoint
Edward Jenner and the discovery of vaccination
Significance of Jenner’s discovery over time
Factors including individual brilliance, science and technology, communication, chance and government
Opposition and criticism of Jenner’s work
GCSE 8-mark source question with scaffolding and Model answer
Retrieval and knowledge-building activities
True or False quiz
‘Have I Got News for You?’ plenary
Differentiated materials
Suggested teaching strategies

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