Where was the First World War fought?
This conflict was the first war to take place on land, at sea and in the air. This fighting occurred in many different areas of the world.
Use this ready-made PowerPoint to introduce Lives of the First World War to your class.
Pick Life Stories to investigate and download the Powerpoint containing primary sources relating to that person.
Take a look at our suggested activities to try with your class, as well as other IWM resources that relate to the theme.
Use Lives of the First World War to research names on your local war memorial - this could be a school memorial to former pupils, or a town or community monument.
We have selected Life Stories connected to this theme. Download the pack of sources connected to the Life Story.
Flora was the only British woman to officially serve as a soldier
Download Pack
John earned the Victoria Cross aged just 16, during the Battle of Jutland
Download Pack
Ralph was awarded the Military Medal for his service in Mesopotamia (Iraq)
Download Pack
Charles was a captain of a merchant ship which encountered German submarines
Download Pack
John served in the Australian Army Medical Corps in Gallipoli, Turkey
Download Pack
1. Use the facts, images, evidence and stories on Life Story pages to compare and contrast individual experiences - think about similarities and differences between these people’s lives.
2. Study one of the sources in detail. When was it written, and for what purpose? What does it tell you about the person’s Life Story? Pick out details about their age, background and family. How does this information relate to their wartime experiences?
3. Create a mini exhibition based on one person’s story. Select three sources from the person’s Life Story page, and create a title and theme for the exhibition.
4. Encourage creative responses inspired by a Life Story, such as poetry, letters, art, drama, music, or dance.
Use these photos, film and other items from the IWM collection related to the theme
The Charles Skey Charitable Trust
It is a really engaging way to teach historical interpretation. A fantastic resource!
Mount School
Help IWM piece together the Life Stories of over 8 million men and women from across Britain and the Commonwealth who served in uniform and worked on the home front during the First World War.
Already a member? Log in