The Slave Trade: What was life really like on the American plantations?

Easy to follow lesson on plantation life. The students analyse two clips from the film 'Twelve Years a Slave' and note down evidence of what was like on a plantation based on the scenes from the film. They are then introduced to some sources (they analyse one each) and match it to one of 4 categories (which I put on posters around the room). They stand by the poster and discuss with other students to ensure they are in the correct place and then they can complete the section on the worksheet that relates to their source. Following this they should exchange info and complete the worksheet. After discussion the main task is writing a letter to the director of the film to give their impression of how accurate the scenes are and how they could be improved. I recently taught this lesson for an observation and the class were really engaged and produced some excellent work. Differentiated materials included, as well as literacy support.