Magna Carta

This lesson is about how people used to write in the Middle Ages, for example when the Magna Carta was produced. It looks at how parchment was made and then focuses on the work of scribes. Both parchment makers and scribes played a vital role in the history of the Magna Carta. The lesson looks at what the two jobs involved and then at the skills needed to do them. Students will practise their reading, writing and speaking skills.

This lesson focuses on the topic of personal freedoms and rights.

This lesson compares two of London’s biggest parades: the Lord Mayor’s Show, which originates from the same time as the Magna Carta, in 1215, and the Notting Hill Carnival, which has been held every year since 1966 and is one of the largest street festivals in the world. The lesson incorporates speaking activities, reading and some grammar. If appropriate, Task 6 can be used as the basis for preparing and giving formal presentations in a later session.

This lesson gives learners an insight into how UK general elections work and helps them develop their knowledge of political lexis and practise their speaking skills.