Henry VIII: Tyrant King? – 4-Lessons

This four-lesson KS3 unit explores whether Henry VIII deserves to be remembered as a tyrant, blending storytelling, analysis, and creative tasks with accessible historical detail.

Lesson 1 – Henry and His Wives:
Students learn about Henry’s early life and his search for a male heir through his six marriages. Using imaginative letters between Henry and Cardinal Wolsey, they explore his personal struggles, the political dangers of divorce, and his growing ambition for power. A group research project on Henry’s wives follows, with peer note-taking during presentations.

Lesson 2 – The Break with Rome and the Dissolution of the Monasteries:
Learners examine why Henry split from the Catholic Church and evaluate the role of Thomas Cromwell. Activities include a “Diamond 9” task ranking the importance of monastery services, a creative script-writing task from different viewpoints, and a recap quiz consolidating key terms and events.

Lesson 3 – Henry VIII Storyboard Lesson:
Students plan a six-scene documentary storyboard covering Henry’s life — from his rise to power and the Great Matter to rebellion and legacy — linking events to historical impact and visual storytelling.

Lesson 4 – Tyrant or Not?:
Students use evidence from previous lessons to write two structured PEEKA paragraphs debating whether Henry was a tyrant. Peer assessment, WWW/EBI reflection, and discussion conclude this engaging and evaluative unit.