Captain James Cook - The Complete Series (3 lessons)

This short series of three lessons is a great way to help your class understand how lands were 'discovered' by European voyagers and is perfect for linking to a topic on Australia. With lesson plans, engaging slides, differentiated activities and a range of fun, printable resources, these KS1 'Captain James Cook' lessons will teach your class when and how Australia was first discovered by Europeans, what it was like to travel on an 18th-century ship, and much more!

Find out all about the great explorer's early life, his passion to be at sea, and his three main voyages. Then enjoy challenging your class to record all the facts they have learnt about Captain James Cook as well as having the opportunity to create a fun travel guide detailing one of the countries he explored.

Take a closer look at Cook’s most significant voyage, discovering the east coast of Australia! Children will find out all about Cook’s journey before comparing a journey to Australia in 1768 to what a journey would be like today. Your class may also have the opportunity to enjoy an explorative drama activity aboard a 16th-century ship.

Consider why Cook was such a special person and learn about how he helped and influenced others. Children will explore life aboard a 16th-century ship, its dangers and hardships before learning about Cook’s treatment of his sailors. They will then enjoy creating a sailor’s guide book to staying happy and healthy as well as having an opportunity to create an art exhibition celebrating the life of Captain James Cook.