KS2 History – Introduction to World War II (Lesson 1)

This fully resourced lesson introduces pupils to the outbreak of World War II, exploring how and why the conflict began, who was involved, and the impact of Hitler’s rise to power on Europe and Jewish communities. Designed for upper Key Stage 2, it builds historical understanding, empathy, and discussion skills through accessible explanations and guided questions.

What’s included:

Editable lesson PowerPoint explaining:

What World War II was

How Hitler and the Nazi Party gained power

The meaning of Lebensraum and Nazi expansion into Europe

The broken Treaty of Versailles and invasion of Poland

Retrieval starter task to strengthen prior knowledge and vocabulary

Accessible explanations of antisemitic laws and the persecution of Jewish people under Nazi rule

Chronological context leading to Britain and France declaring war

Source stimulus featuring Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain’s announcement

Discussion and reflection prompts (e.g. “How would you feel hearing this announcement?”)

Opportunities for thoughtful questioning and inference about key historical figures

Key learning:
Pupils develop a foundational understanding of why WWII began, the consequences of German expansion, and how everyday life changed for Jewish citizens in Nazi-controlled territory.