Art and Culture of Great Britain

The history of Great Britain is long and rich. It is intertwined with the development of most other European nations, as well as that of the United States. Beginning with the settlement of Britain by the Celtic people called the Britons, the land was later occupied by the Romans, the Anglo-Saxons, the Vikings and others. Britain has been home to such literary greats as Shakespeare and Chaucer, talented artists like J.M.W. Turner and Edward Burne-Jones, and influential monarchs including Henry VIII, Elizabeth, Victoria and others.

Students will enjoy researching and making models or drawings of numerous landmarks throughout Great Britain. Using clay, Model Magic, Sculpey or a similar material, you can have students create a small model of some of Britain’s most important sites; including Stonehenge, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Hadrian’s Wall. You may also choose to have them write a brief report on the site to reflect the research they have done.

Britain is the birthplace of countless individuals who changed the course of human history. You can have a British Ball in which all of these figures come together to share their ideas – for better or for worse – inventions and writings. Assign each student a historical figure such as William Shakespeare, Oliver Cromwell, Boadicea, William of Normandy, Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots and Queen Victoria. Have them dress in character, deliver a brief speech introducing themselves and then allow them to mingle with the other historical figures whom they might not have met previously. For more ideas about how to teach your student about the art and culture of Great Britain, see the lessons below.

Art and Culture of Great Britain Lesson Plans:

Roman Defense of Britain

This engaging, interactive lesson from the BBC can help students develop an understanding of Roman-occupied Britain during the Roman Empire. Particular attention is given to Hadrian’s defensive wall and an exploration and interpretation of primary sources.

A Very Short History of the English Language

In this lesson students discuss the history and development of the English language. They create a timeline of British history and chart the influences of different groups on the language itself. Many excellent references are suggested for teachers choosing to implement this lesson.

The Church of England

The history of the Church of England is explored in this lesson, beginning with the reign of Henry VIII. Students learn about the intermingling of church and state and how Henry VIII was able to acquire that which was held by the church. Attention is also given to the Protestant Reformation and the Counter Reformation.

Landmarks of London

Students can enjoy an “armchair visit” to London in which they plan a tour of many of the city’s landmarks. Students create a travel brochure in which they outline the sites to be visited and some relevant information about each.

Battle of Britain

Through primary document analysis and historical inquiry, this lesson can help students develop a thorough understanding of the Battle of Britain. Students learn about both the short-term and long-term effects of the battle and its overall role in World War II.