Smugglers.pdf

The learning unit focuses on the history and geography of Herne in the 1700s, specifically on smuggling. The key question is whether smuggling was justified in Herne during that time. The unit builds upon previous learning in Years 3-6, covering topics such as local study, geography, and map skills.

In Lesson 1, students learn why smuggling was needed in Kent and why Herne was an ideal location. They understand that the government's increase in tax on certain imports led to smuggling becoming a necessity for the poorer classes. Smugglers were initially viewed positively by locals.

Students locate England, Kent, and Herne on a map, identify the coast's proximity to Herne, and understand the physical features that made Herne ideal for smuggling. They also learn about trading links with France and Holland and how different areas smuggled different items.

The unit aims to develop skills such as asking geographical questions, using maps and secondary sources, and understanding physical geography. Students make comparisons with their modern-day lives, considering what would have to happen for them to be tempted into smuggling again and whether Herne would still be an ideal location.

The progression of skills includes finding out about everyday lives in a historical time period, making simple comparisons, understanding why people in history may have wanted to create change, and understanding the consequences of people's actions.