Hands on History: The Normans
What is Hands on History The Normans
Hands on History aims to bring the past to life through hands on activities for families and schools. Travel back in time with Eric and discover what life was like in Norman times.
Download activities covering castles, feasting and the Battle of Hastings or visit the Anglo Saxons: Normans section of Primary History for articles and quizzes to use in the classroom.
Lesson plans and Activities
Lesson Plans
- Lesson 1 - Castles
Build your own Norman castle and learn about the key parts of a motte and bailey castle as well as looking at the perfect castle locations. - Lesson 2 - Feasting
Compare the food we eat today with food from Norman times and discover the importance of feasting in the Norman era. - Lesson 3 - The Battle of Hastings and the Bayeux Tapestry
Learn why the Normans invaded the UK, look at the Bayeux Tapestry and design a crest. - Lesson 4 - Domesday Book
Explore what we can learn from the Domesday survey as a historical source and learn how to conduct a survey.
Activities
- Activity 1 - Battle of Hastings 1066 game
'Battle of Hastings' is an active role-playing game for 7-11 year olds. - Activity 2 - 'I Spy' churches guide
A handy guide of things to look out for in a Norman church. - Activity 3 - 'I Spy' castles guide
A handy guide of things to look out for in a Norman castle.





