Lesson Summary
In this lesson, pupils explore how geography shaped defence during the Viking and Anglo‑Saxon period. They will identify the boundaries of the Danelaw, understand how Alfred’s burhs protected Wessex, and analyse why specific locations were chosen for strategic fortifications. Through map work and geographical reasoning, pupils discover how terrain, rivers, and landscape features influenced decisions about defence and control.

What’s Included

• Full PowerPoint lesson with clear modelling and engaging visuals
• Worksheet task: Annotate a map using terrain features to place strategic fortifications
• Peer and group discussion opportunities
• In‑lesson tasks developing geographical analysis and decision‑making
• Engaging materials designed in your premium, minimalist style

Why Teachers Will Like This Resource
This lesson helps pupils connect physical geography with human decision‑making, showing how landscapes shape political power and defence. It supports analytical thinking, map skills, and historical‑geographical understanding — all in a ready‑to‑teach, visually engaging format ideal for Year 7.