WW1 - The Alliances

This lesson would work as a follow-up to the Assassination of Franz Ferdinand

Lesson Objectives: To know the key members of the Alliances in 1914 ​

To compare key sources of tension in Europe before 1914​

To select key points of tension that led to war

This lesson is designed to be an introduction to the Triple Alliance and Triple Entente of Europe pre-war.

• Starter activity: Placing the key events that led to the outbreak of World War One in correct chronological order. (Provided on worksheet, or could be done as a BOB activity).
• Who were allies in 1914’s Europe? Play a quick song to get the countries known to your students, and explore the map of Europe. (Blank map provided). Did the alliances make war more or less likely?
• What resources did the alliances have in 1914? Is one side stronger than the other? Or are they equally matched?
• Sources of conflict between countries. Have students explore the sources of tension and create a table to show these problems. Information provided with a lower ability option, and with challenge tasks.
• Think, Pair, Share for plenary. How would students explain the sources of conflict and use key examples to demonstrate them?

This lesson would be suited for a KS3 higher ability group, or for a KS4 class developing further skills. All worksheets provided.