World War I (1914–1918) KS1 & KS2 PowerPoint History Lesson | WW1 Overview

Description

World War I (1914–1918) – KS1 & KS2 History Lesson

Introduce pupils to the key events, causes and impact of World War I with this clear, structured and engaging PowerPoint lesson.

This lesson explains how the war began, who fought in it, what life was like for soldiers in the trenches, how new technology changed warfare, and how the war affected people at home. It finishes with reflection activities to consolidate understanding.

Perfect for KS2 History and suitable for upper KS1 with teacher guidance.

This lesson is part of our History collection of resources. Explore our full range here:

History | Primary PowerPoint Shop

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📚 What’s Included:

• Clear explanation of the Allies and Central Powers

• The MAIN causes of WW1 (Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism, Nationalism)

• The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand

• Life in the Trenches

• WW1 weapons and technology (machine guns, gas, tanks, U-boats, aeroplanes)

• The Home Front – rationing and food shortages

• Women’s roles during the war

• Propaganda explained in child-friendly language

• The Armistice (11th November 1918)

• The Treaty of Versailles

• Built-in plenary discussion and reflection slides

• One-sentence reflection task

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🎯 Learning Objectives

Pupils will:

• Understand the main causes of World War I

• Identify the two sides in the war

• Describe what life was like in the trenches

• Explain how new technology changed warfare

• Understand how the war affected people at home

• Recognise why the Armistice was significant

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👩‍🏫 Why Teachers Love This Resource

✔ Clear structure
✔ Age-appropriate explanations
✔ Visual and engaging slides
✔ Covers both battlefield and Home Front
✔ Built-in plenary
✔ No additional preparation required

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📦 Product Details

• Format: PowerPoint (.pptx)

• Year Groups: KS2 (adaptable for KS1)

• Subject: History

• Topic: World War I

• Teaching Time: 1 lesson (45–60 minutes)

• Editable: Yes