To learn why thousands of children were sent away from their families. To investigate what it was like to be a World War II evacuee. To find out how photographs can be used to influence people’s point of view.

When World War II began in September 1939, thousands of children and women were evacuated from cities into ‘reception areas’ in the countryside. Can you guess why?

These children are being evacuated from London. What is the girl (cente) carrying in the square cardboard box? Why do you think they are wearing labels? What else do you think they are carrying?

The document below was sent out to parents to tell them what evacuees should take with them. How does your list compare? GOVERNMENT EVACUATION SCHEME BOYGIRL 2 vests 2 under pants2 knickers 2 shirts2 liberty bodices 2 pyjamas or night shirts2 nightdresses or pyjamas 2 pairs socks2 pairs socks or stockings 2 pairs boots or shoes2 pairs shoes 1 wellingtons(if possible)1 wellingtons (if possible) 1 warm coat/mackintosh 1 pair trousers1 warn dress/tunic 1 pullover1 cardigan 6 handkerchiefs 1 toothbrush 1 face flannel 1 comb 2 towels FOOD: Take sufficient food for one day. Take ration book and identity card in gas mask case. 2 cotton frocks

The government published photographs of evacuees looking extremely happy. They did this so that evacuees would not be afraid of having to leave their homes. Write down words which describe this group of evacuees. Do the same for this photograph.

Now look at the photograph again. What do you notice? Why do you think the boy on the left was often cut out of the picture? This is an example of ‘propoganda’. This means that the photographer wanted people to believe in a particular point of view.

Why were children and women evacuated from their homes? Do we understand how evacuees must have felt leaving their parents? What is ‘propoganda’ ?