History teacher skills: Cause and consequence

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Teaching the disciplinary concept of cause and consequence

This History teacher video explores the concept of cause and consequence as outlined in the National Curriculum. It explains how historical events are triggered by a combination of short- and long-term causes and how those events, in turn, lead to consequences that can shape people, communities, and beliefs. The video emphasises the importance of understanding that just because one event precedes another doesn’t mean it caused it. Pupils must first gain secure knowledge of an event before analysing its causes and consequences, making this concept particularly effective when exploring wars, invasions, or rebellions.

Practical examples and strategies are shared to help teachers make this abstract concept more accessible, such as using diagrams, Venn diagrams, and sticky note activities to categorise and prioritise causes and consequences. The video shows how pupils can be supported in identifying links between causes and consequences, considering their importance and relevance, and using these insights to develop deeper historical understanding.

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