Numeracy in History (Castles)

Numeracy in History

This blog post looks at using numeracy in History to compliment LNF strands. Strategies have been listed to help incorporate numeracy into lessons. These activities are framed to suit a Year 7 scheme of lessons on Castles, however the activities could be differentiated to suit other Key Stage 3 classes.
Most of the activities/ideas have been adapted from TES resources.

Working out centuries/Starter activity

This is a simple starter activity to use to incorporate into any History lesson. I think this is also a handy tip for students to use when working out which century a date belongs to. Thus, the activity has value and is not a bolt-on. Google slide created by me.

Castles 

How were castles attacked?

This PowerPoint and the resources can be located on TES resources. The task requires students to choose three weapons they think would best defend their castle during an attack on their castle. Students must read the 'Book of War' to work out the suitability of each weapon and the cost of each weapon. Students are given a budget and must budget for three weapons and enough soldiers to work each weapon. For children needing an extra challenge, extra gold can be cashed in for extra defence points through the purchase of armour and weapons upgrades.

Numerical Reasoning

Transfer mathematical skills across the curriculum in a variety of contexts and everyday situations.

Prioritise and organise the relevant steps needed to complete the task or reach a solution.

Number skills

Use appropriate strategies for multiplication and division, including application of known facts.

                

I created a differentiated numeracy task sheet below to support those pupils with weak numeracy skills. 

After students have worked out their budgeting, they now have the opportunity to 'battle' with other students. Their three weapons are used to go head to head with other students choices judging on the weapons attack points. The class really enjoyed the competitive aspect - especially the boys! The battle time serves as a fun and active way to check understanding and assess for learning. Students have had to justify their choices using the book of war.

To round off the lesson, I created a pass the parcel style plenary/AFL activity with the weapons as key words under each layer. Students were to explain the weapon they pulled out, their answers were developed further by questioning like what are the strengths and weaknesses of each weapon in a battle.

Making castles

On a separate note from numeracy challenges in History. As we finished the SOW on classes, I decided to let the students create castles with materials of their choice. Below are some photos of their creations!