Can I Wonder: Why Castles Had Moats help me teach a year two Castles topic?
Using "I Wonder Why Castles Had Moats" can be an excellent resource for teaching a Year Two topic on castles. Here’s how you can incorporate it effectively into your lessons:
Overview of the Book
"I Wonder Why Castles Had Moats" is designed for children aged 5-8 and uses engaging illustrations and simple questions to explore various aspects of medieval life, including the purpose of moats around castles. The book answers questions like "Why did kings build a moat around the castle?" and provides insights into the defensive mechanisms of castles, making it relatable and informative for young learners .Teaching Strategies
1. Introduce the Concept of Castles
- Discussion: Start with a discussion about what students know about castles. Ask questions like, "What do you think a castle is used for?" or "Have you seen any castles in movies or books?"
- Visual Aids: Use pictures or videos of castles to capture their interest.
2. Read Aloud from the Book
- Interactive Reading: Read selected passages from "I Wonder Why Castles Had Moats." Encourage students to ask questions as you read.
- Focus on Moats: Highlight the section that explains how moats served as a defence mechanism, making it difficult for attackers to reach the castle.
3. Hands-On Activities
- Create a Model: Have students create a simple model of a castle with a moat using craft materials. This can include drawing or building with blocks.
- Role Play: Organize a role-play activity where some students act as castle defenders and others as attackers, discussing strategies related to moats.
4. Explore Related Topics
- Defensive Features: Discuss other defensive features of castles mentioned in the book, such as high walls and arrow loops.
- Historical Context: Provide context on why castles were built during medieval times, focusing on safety from invaders.
5. Follow-Up Questions
Encourage critical thinking by asking follow-up questions:
- "What would happen if there were no moats?"
- "Can you think of other ways people protect their homes today?"
Additional Resources
Consider supplementing your lessons with videos about castles or books that delve deeper into medieval life, such as "Everything Castles" or "See Inside Castles," which provide engaging visuals and stories .
By utilizing "I Wonder Why Castles Had Moats," you can create an interactive and educational experience that not only teaches students about castles but also engages their curiosity about history.
What other historical topics has Philip Steele explored in his books?
Philip Steele has explored a wide array of historical topics in his books. Some of these topics include:
- Ancient Civilizations: He has written about Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, Ancient Rome, and Ancient China, providing insights into their cultures and histories.
- Medieval History: His works cover the medieval world, including books about castles, knights, and the Vikings.
- irates and Exploration: Steele has authored books on pirates and great journeys, delving into the adventurous aspects of history.
- Significant Historical Figures: He has written about notable figures such as Marie Curie, Galileo, and Isaac Newton, highlighting their contributions to science and history.
- Modern History: Topics such as the Holocaust and uprisings in the Middle East and North Africa are also part of his repertoire.
- Cultural and Social Themes: Steele's books often explore cultural and social themes, such as civil rights with figures like Rosa Parks and Harriet Tubman.
Overall, Philip Steele's works span a broad spectrum of historical periods and themes, making history accessible and engaging for young readers.
