Usborne Starting Point History
What Were Castles For?

What Were Castles For?

Ready to dive into the world of medieval castles with your little ones? Usborne's Starting Point History series has a gem called "What Were Castles For?"—perfect for sparking curiosity in young minds while making history come alive!

First off, let's talk about the basics. Castles weren't just fancy homes for kings and queens; they were bustling centres of life and defence. Imagine a time when invaders were a constant threat. Castles provided a safe haven, with thick walls and high towers to keep watch over the surrounding lands. They were designed to be both a fortress and a home, combining safety with the comforts of medieval living.

But that’s not all! Castles were also the heart of their communities. Inside those stone walls, you’d find everything from blacksmiths and bakers to knights and noble families. They were places of learning and governance, where decisions were made, and justice was served. When teaching this to your students, why not create a mini-castle out of cardboard and let their imaginations run wild? They can play the roles of different castle inhabitants, learning through hands-on fun.

So, next time you crack open "What Were Castles For?" with your class, remember—you’re not just teaching history, you’re bringing a whole era to life. Happy educating, and may your classroom be as lively and engaging as a medieval castle courtyard!

Author: Philip Roxbee Cox

Philip is well known as a children’s non-fiction writer, but his career as a fiction author is now taking off. His latest children’s fiction title, “Awful End” has received much critical acclaim.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: Usborne
  • Format: Paperback
  • Print length: 32 pages
  • Dimensions: 240 x 205mm
  • Reading age: 6-8 years old
  • Publication date: November 2015
  • ISBN: 9781474910477

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A bit more about the author Philip Roxbee Cox

When it comes to engaging young minds and sparking a love for reading, few do it better than Philip Roxbee Cox! If you're a primary school teacher or a home educator looking for a literary gem to add to your collection, look no further. Philip Roxbee Cox has crafted a delightful array of children’s books that are perfect for early readers. His works are not just entertaining; they’re educational, making them a double win for your classroom or home library.

One of the standout series from Cox is the "Usborne Phonics Readers," a treasure trove of charming tales that help children develop their reading skills through the magic of phonics. These books are designed with vibrant illustrations and simple, repetitive text that makes it easier for young readers to grasp phonetic sounds and word patterns. Titles like "Fat Cat on a Mat" and "Toad Makes a Road" are not just fun to say—they’re fun to read! Each story is packed with humour and adventure, ensuring that learning to read is an exciting journey rather than a chore.

For educators, Philip Roxbee Cox’s books are a fantastic tool to keep in your teaching toolkit. They're perfect for read-aloud sessions, guided reading groups, or even as a part of your phonics curriculum. The stories are not too lengthy, making them ideal for those short, precious pockets of time you have with your students. Plus, the engaging content keeps kids coming back for more, fostering a lifelong love for books. So, if you’re looking to add a sprinkle of joy and a dash of education to your reading sessions, Philip Roxbee Cox’s works are a must-have!

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