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How did the British Empire shape the World? (5 lessons and scheme of learning)

These five lessons form a cohesive and well-structured unit that guides students through a comprehensive exploration of the British Empire. The sequence begins with an introduction to what the British Empire was, establishing foundational knowledge and the concept of historical significance using the BIG (Breakthrough, Impact, Groundbreaking) criteria. Lessons 2 and 3 then delve into the social and political impacts of the Empire, using examples and case studies to show how British rule affected societies and governance structures across the globe. These lessons build on each other by reinforcing the idea that the Empire's influence was both widespread and deeply embedded in the lives of colonised peoples. Lessons 4 and 5 expand the scope further by examining the economic and military dimensions of the Empire and encouraging students to evaluate its overall significance. Lesson 4 contrasts the roles of trade and war, helping students understand how wealth and power were maintained. Lesson 5 then brings all the themes together in a gallery-style task that challenges students to apply their knowledge critically and creatively. Here they curate their own exhibition for a fictional museum. Together, these lessons offer a balanced, thematic approach that encourages both factual understanding and critical thinking, making the topic accessible and engaging for Year 8 students.