Knowledge organiser - Slavery - Year 5

The Year 5 knowledge organiser on the topic of slavery introduces students to the essential vocabulary and key knowledge required to understand this significant historical subject. The term 'race' is defined as a classification of humans into groups based on physical and genetic traits. 'Slavery' is described as a system where individuals are forced to work without pay and are 'owned' by another person, typically someone with wealth and power. 'Freedom' is the right to live, speak, and think independently, a right that was denied to slaves. The 'abolishment' of slavery refers to the action of formally putting an end to this inhumane practice.

The organiser delves into the concept of 'inherently inferior', a prejudiced belief that black people were less capable or significant than white people, which underpinned the rationalisation for their enslavement. The 'Atlantic slave trade' is identified as the forced movement of enslaved Africans, primarily to the Americas, by slave traders. Students are expected to acquire knowledge about the origins of slaves, their destinations, the reasons behind their enslavement, the treatment they endured, and the individuals who courageously fought for the abolition of slavery. This knowledge forms part of the main learning focus for Year 5 history, specifically within the context of Black History, and builds on the prior knowledge students have already gained.