The Blitz: When Bombs Fell on Britain (Lesson Plan)

Lesson Plan - The Blitz: When Bombs Fell on Britain

Elective Home Education (EHE) gives you the freedom to shape learning around your child’s interests, pace, and preferred ways of exploring the world. Our lesson plans are created with that in mind—structured to offer helpful guidance, yet flexible enough to follow wherever your learner’s curiosity takes them. Each plan includes reading, discussions, hands-on tasks, creative activities, and ideas for extending learning.

Think of these plans as starting points, not strict schedules. One of the best things about home education is the opportunity to pause, dig deeper, or head off in unexpected directions. If your learner becomes especially fascinated by an event, person, or experience from this period—embrace it! Use this plan to encourage meaningful conversations and learning moments. Adapt, skip, or expand activities based on your learner’s interests, energy, and age.

This lesson plan is designed to go with our Info Zone topic on The Blitz: When Bombs Fell on Britain.

Lesson Plan: The Blitz — When Bombs Fell on Britain
Overview	This home education lesson explores the events, causes, and effects of The Blitz during World War II. Learners will discover how people coped, how children were evacuated, and how the Blitz Spirit became a symbol of hope and bravery. Suitable for ages 8–16.
Learning Objectives	- Understand why The Blitz happened - Learn how people survived air raids and bombing - Explore the experiences of evacuees and families - Recognise the importance of the Blitz Spirit
Estimated Time	60–75 minutes
Starter Activity	Discuss: "Imagine your town suddenly had to prepare for air raids. What would you do? Where would you hide?" Look at a photo of an Anderson shelter or the London Underground being used as a shelter. What do you notice?
Read and Learn	Read our Info Zone topic about The Blitz: When Bombs Fell on Britain either aloud with someone or quietly on your own. Then think about or discuss the following questions: Why did The Blitz begin in 1940? What is meant by the 'blackout' and why was it important? What is an Anderson shelter? Why were many children evacuated from cities? What does the term 'Blitz Spirit' mean? Next: Find your town on a map of Britain. Was it bombed during the war? Research together or as a family.
Activities	Comprehension Questions: What were Germany’s goals during The Blitz? How did people protect themselves during air raids? What was the experience of evacuated children like? What kinds of jobs did women do during The Blitz? How did pets play a role during this time? How did the Blitz Spirit help people cope? Creative Writing: Write a diary entry as a child during The Blitz. Describe what you hear during an air raid, how you feel, and what you do to stay safe. Timeline Challenge: September 1939 – Britain declares war on Germany Summer 1940 – Battle of Britain 7th September 1940 – The Blitz begins May 1941 – The Blitz ends 1944–45 – V1 and V2 rocket attacks
Deeper Thinking	Big Question: "Do you think children should have been evacuated? Why or why not?" Discuss and consider how difficult it would have been for children and parents.
Creative Projects	- Design an air raid shelter for your family. What would you put inside to make it safe and comfortable? - Create a Blitz Spirit poster encouraging people to stay positive during hard times.
Review & Reflect	Ask the learner: What’s one new thing you learned today? What part of The Blitz surprised you the most? What would you like to learn more about next?
Extensions & Homework	- Research the story of St. Paul’s Cathedral during The Blitz - Watch a documentary or film clip about The Blitz - Compare The Blitz with another event in British history where people showed courage