Saxons: Illuminated Manuscripts
KS2
Venue: Stockwood Discovery Centre (60 minutes)
Session summary:
The session looks at literacy in the Anglo-Saxon age. The children will be given a brief history
of writing; discuss who in Saxon times would be likely to read and write; have a go using
Saxon script and technology (wax tablet, reed or quill pens); and finally start their own
illuminated manuscript.
Assessment opportunities: During this session students’ knowledge and understanding can
be assessed through their verbal contributions and discussions as well as the art work they
produce.
Curriculum links: KS 2
Curriculum links KS2 Curriculum
links KS2
History: Anglo-Saxons & Vikings
Art: Sketch to record their
observations.
Improve their mastery of art and
design techniques with varied
materials
English: Listen and respond
appropriately to adults and their
peers
Speak audibly and fluently
Learning objectives:
 The children should
 Know that some Saxons could read and write,
and be able to state which types of people these
Saxons were.
 Compare the tools and materials used by the
Saxons with those they use today.
 Gain an appreciation of the technical skills of the
monks through the creation of their own
manuscript
SMSC: Spiritual development Sense of enjoyment and fascination
in learning about themselves, others
and the world around them.
Cultural development Understanding and appreciation of
the wide range of cultural influences
that have shaped their own heritage.
Willingness to participate in, and
respond to cultural opportunities.
Other skills: Handwriting
This session is part of our Saxon experience and
can be taught along side our other sessions:
 Meet an Anglo-Saxon warrior
 Saxon Discoveries
 Don’t let the Bedbugs bite
Learning outcomes:
To be able to talk about the
different materials used in the
session consider whether they
are easier or harder to use
compared to the art materials
they normally use.
To be able to recall which types
of Saxon people would have
been able to read and write.
To have started their own
illuminated manuscript.
Additional information: This session uses dip pens and ink and could be a little messy. If
you are concerned about uniforms being marked please bring aprons for the children to
wear during the session.
It is also useful to know if any members of your class have learning, physical or sensory
difficulties, illnesses tor allergies hat may affect their enjoyment of the session. It is usually
possible to tailor the session to the needs of your class. Please let us know at least 2
weeks in advance by contacting us on 01582 546740 or [email protected] to
discuss.
Suggested activities:
Before the visit
It is useful for the children to know a little about the Anglo-Saxons and Saxon/Viking Britain.
After the visit
Investigate the different versions of the Anglo-Saxon chronicle. Why?
Can the children make their own pens. Can they think of different materials they might use.
Useful resources
BBC Primary History website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/primaryhistory/anglo_saxons/
The British Library - Lindisfarne Gospel: http://www.bl.uk/onlinegallery/sacredtexts/
lindisfarne.html
The British Library—Anglo-Saxon Chronicle: http://www.bl.uk/learning/langlit/changlang/
writtenword/anglo/anglosaxonchronicle.html