Lives of working children during the Victorian era - Worksheet

This worksheet invites students to explore the lives of working children during the Victorian era. It begins with an interactive activity where students must examine a series of photographs depicting children engaged in various forms of labour. After scrutinising the images, they are encouraged to discuss with a partner what tasks the children in the photographs might be performing. The activity is designed to prompt students to consider the realities of child labour during this historical period by asking which of the depicted jobs they would prefer to do and which they would find least appealing. This exercise not only engages students with the subject matter but also fosters empathy and a deeper understanding of the hardships faced by children in the past.

The worksheet also poses broader questions about the Victorian era's impact on contemporary life and the typical experiences of children during that time. These questions are meant to stimulate critical thinking and discussion, allowing students to connect the past with the present and reflect on the societal changes that have occurred since the Victorian era. Through this activity, students gain insight into the significant differences in childhood experiences across history and the evolution of child labour laws and societal norms. The worksheet is a resource provided by Focus Education (UK) Ltd, designed to support the educational exploration of British history and its lasting effects on modern society.