Medieval Japan Lesson 1

This 7-lesson scheme of work on Medieval Japan is fully planned, resourced and ready to teach, built around the enquiry question: “To what extent did the Samurai live up to their Warrior Spirit?” Each lesson includes clear learning objectives, engaging activities, key vocabulary, and opportunities for discussion and reflection. The scheme covers life and hierarchy in feudal Japan (with comparisons to feudal England), the Samurai and Bushidō, women in medieval Japan, and everyday life. All resources are printable and editable, with starters, plenaries and ongoing assessment for learning included throughout.

Lesson 1 introduces students to Medieval Japan through a range of accessible and engaging activities. Students begin with a mystery source to spark curiosity, explore the geography of Japan, and watch a short introductory video to build initial context. Key vocabulary is taught explicitly, followed by a reading comprehension task and structured class discussion to consolidate understanding. The lesson concludes with a true or false plenary quiz to assess learning. A clear, well-paced introduction to the enquiry that sets students up for success in later lessons.