Was Richard III a villain or an opportunist?
The purpose for reintroducing Richard III into the KS3 curriculum was to expand our students’ understanding of Shakespeare’s plays. Key scenes allow us to look at moral issues that are present in the play.
For example, is it acceptable to be a bad friend? How powerful are our words and deeds? Do you think all relationships are good?
The students love to discover new information and this play encourages them to see Shakespeare as a modern day ‘horror writer’.
Why teach this?
Shakespeare’s historical play, Richard III, challenges students and encourages them to broaden and deepen their knowledge about a variety of topics.
Key curriculum links
- Historical links – Richard III – investigating him as a king.
- Biology – investigating Richard’s deformity
- Geography – investigating which part of England he ruled over
- Drama – investigating dramatic terms, studying body language, voice intonations
Similar resources
- AQA English Literature Paper 1 – Macbeth/Christmas Carol walkthrough
- AQA English Language Paper 1 2024 – Ultimate revision booklet
- Persuasive writing KS3 – Boost skills with a Charlie Chaplin clip
- Dracula play – Post-1914 play unit for KS3/4 English
- Analytical writing – Advice and poster for KS3/4 English