Domesday Book: medieval treasure

What can we learn about people’s lives in 1086?

What to expect in the onsite workshop:   

In the onsite workshop students examine a range of information contained within a single paragraph from Domesday. They will then judge its value against other medieval documents in our collection. This session develops students’ skills in analysing documents, comparing information and forming evidence-based judgements.    

The two-hour workshop is led by an experienced history educator in an inspiring learning space at The National Archives in Kew. Students handle a range of original documents including artefacts such as the Tally sticks, unusual pictorial information contained within marginalia and beautifully illustrated maps. All of which provide fascinating insights into life in medieval times. 

What to expect in the online workshop:    

In the online workshop in your classroom students will race to ‘decode’ Domesday! They will also be examining a range of other medieval documents including artefacts such as the Tally sticks and unusual pictorial information contained within marginalia to discover different information to that contained within Domesday. This session develops skills in analysing documents, comparing information and forming evidence-based judgements. The one-hour online session in your classroom is led by an experienced history educator, you only need a microphone, large screen and webcam to take part. Interactive activities encourage students to discuss their ideas and work in groups using high-quality materials provided in advance by the Education team.    

*Note we will adapt the timing of the workshop to fit with your lesson times.     

Connections to the curriculum: History KS3. This session supports schools studying the development of Church, state and society in medieval Britain 1066-1509. 

Available as: On site workshop, online workshop. Find out more about the types of session we offer.