A fully prepared history and public health investigation based on the 1854 Broad Street cholera outbreak in Victorian London. Pupils take on the role of investigators, using maps, victim cards, and clue cards to solve the mystery of how cholera spread through Soho. Inspired by the real work of John Snow, this engaging enquiry activity develops critical thinking, source analysis, and problem-solving skills while introducing students to the origins of epidemiology and public health reform.

Students work collaboratively to identify patterns, track infections, and discover the source of the outbreak using evidence-based reasoning. The resource also explores sanitation, contaminated water, and the importance of clean public water supplies in Victorian Britain.

Key Features:

• Interactive mystery-solving activity
• Fictionalised Broad Street area map
• Victim cards and clue cards for evidence gathering
• Strong links to cholera, sanitation, and public health
• Encourages deduction, teamwork, and discussion
• Historically grounded introduction to epidemiology

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand how cholera spread in Victorian London
• Explore the importance of clean water and sanitation
• Analyse evidence to identify patterns and causes
• Learn how John Snow investigated the outbreak
• Develop historical enquiry and reasoning skills

Included in the PDF:

• Teacher instructions and lesson overview
• Background information on cholera and the 1854 outbreak
• Printable victim cards and clue cards
• Group investigation task using maps and evidence
• Suggested discussion questions and extension ideas