How does Jane Bingham's background in English and Art History influence her writing style?
Jane Bingham’s background in English and Art History deeply shapes her writing style, bringing together clarity, vividness, and a keen sense of context. Her training in English enables her to craft concise, engaging narratives that are accessible to young readers, avoiding textbook dryness and instead making complex historical and artistic subjects lively and relatable. Meanwhile, her expertise in Art History allows her to vividly describe visual culture, incorporate practical art projects, and explain the broader cultural significance of artistic movements and artifacts. This blend of literary and visual sensibility ensures that her books not only inform but also inspire curiosity, helping children see the connections between history, art, and everyday life.
Using Jane Bingham’s book on the Tudors is an effective way to teach history to Key Stage 2 students because her writing is engaging, accessible, and tailored to young readers. She presents the complex history of the Tudor monarchs in a clear and concise manner, ensuring that students can easily follow the sequence of events without feeling overwhelmed by details. The book covers each monarch’s reign, from Henry VII through Elizabeth I, providing a lively overview that includes not just political events but also fascinating glimpses into daily life, culture, and even Tudor medicine and art, which helps to bring the era vividly to life for children.
Bingham’s approach avoids the dryness of traditional textbooks, making history enjoyable and memorable. Her inclusion of interesting facts, anecdotes, and trivia—such as quirky stories about the monarchs or details about Tudor customs—captures students’ imaginations and encourages curiosity about the past. The structure of the book, with its segmented text and illustrations, helps break down information into manageable parts, making it easier for children to absorb and retain what they learn. This style supports a range of learning abilities and keeps students engaged throughout their study of the Tudors.
Additionally, Bingham’s background in both English and Art History enriches her storytelling, allowing her to weave cultural and artistic context into historical narratives. This multidisciplinary approach connects history to other subjects like art, design, and technology, aligning well with the cross-curricular aims of the Key Stage 2 curriculum. By using Bingham’s book, teachers can foster a deeper understanding of the Tudor period, inspire further exploration, and help students develop a genuine interest in history.
