Bring the story of the Titanic to life with this engaging Upper KS2 history unit exploring what life was really like on board the world’s most famous ocean liner.

Rather than focusing on the sinking, this lesson investigates the people who travelled on Titanic, comparing the experiences of First, Second and Third Class passengers alongside the vital roles carried out by the crew. Through enquiry, discussion and cross-curricular activities, pupils develop historical understanding while exploring themes of social class, inequality and daily life in 1912.

This complete lesson is designed to minimise teacher preparation and includes everything needed to deliver an engaging, enquiry-based lesson.

Big Question

Was life on Titanic the same for everyone?

Included in this resource
Fully editable PowerPoint (55+ slides)
Student workbook
Teacher guide
Independent assessment
Passenger fact matching activity
First, Second and Third Class comparison worksheet
First Class menu design activity
Diary writing activity
Vocabulary activities
Retrieval quizzes
Knowledge quiz
Plenary reflection
Learning Objectives

Pupils will:

Learn who travelled on Titanic.
Compare life in First, Second and Third Class.
Understand the roles of the crew.
Explain why experiences on Titanic were different.
Cross-Curricular Links
History
English
Maths
Science
Art
Design Technology
Ideal For
Upper KS2
Years 5–6
History lessons
Topic work
Whole-class teaching
Independent learning
Home learning
SEND-friendly classrooms

This resource forms Unit 2 of a comprehensive Titanic Topic Bundle, which also includes additional lessons, workbooks, assessments and teacher guides covering the construction of Titanic, the voyage, the disaster, investigations and Titanic’s lasting legacy.