1.  starter activity Describe the picture or source here. Many historians have criticised General Haig, for the importance he attached to the use of cavalry divisions during World War One. Was he totally wrong to assume horses could play a part in the War? What were the strengths and weaknesses in using horses?  Can you think of other animals that might have been used and the strengths and weaknesses of using them?

2. What part did animals play in WWI? To find out about the part played by animals, evaluate their contribution & write a ‘citation’  Learning objectives  Key words: cavalry citation

3.  Your task Read about the role of 3 different animals. Take notes on the strengths and weaknesses of using each type of animal. Read about the role of 3 different animals. Take notes on the strengths and weaknesses of using each type of animal. Hold a silent debate in groups of 3. You will each draw a lollipop out of the hat and that will correspond to the animal you must justify played the biggest part in WWI. Hold a silent debate in groups of 3. You will each draw a lollipop out of the hat and that will correspond to the animal you must justify played the biggest part in WWI.

4. In WWII a special award known as the Dickin Medal was awarded by Maria Dickin the founder of the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals. It was awarded on numerous occasions during WWII and even to animals who helped in rescue operations during the 9/11 attacks. Imagine the award had been available to animals in WWI. Write a citation explaining why you particular choice of animal should be given the award. Refer to: The work of this animal Comparison with the work of other animals Explanation of why this animal should receive the award This medal should be awarded to …. because of …

5.  Success criteria Room for improvementGetting betterWow factor! Describes the work of the chosen animal but doesn’t explain why the award should be given to it instead of other types of animals Describes and explains the work of the chosen animal and refers to other animals. Room for a little more factual detail Describes and explains the work of the chosen animal Compares its achievements with those of two other animals Makes a convincing case as to why it should receive the award

6.  Extension task Find out more about these two animal heroes of WWI: Find out more about these two animal heroes of WWI: A pigeon named ‘Cher Ami’ A pigeon named ‘Cher Ami’ A do named ‘Stubby’ A do named ‘Stubby’ Stubby with his medals

7.  Homework Continue with your ‘My Story’ – include references to General Haig and the Battle of the Somme as well as the work of animals Continue with your ‘My Story’ – include references to General Haig and the Battle of the Somme as well as the work of animals  Watch War Horse on DVD or nag your parents to take you to see it on stage!  Watch War Horse on DVD or nag your parents to take you to see it on stage!

8. What part did animals play in WWI? To find out about the part played by animals, evaluate their contribution & write a ‘citation’  Learning objectives  Key words: cavalry citation