Topic Two (1.2): The Spanish Armada

Introduction Icon.png Introduction

The rivalry with, and ultimate defeat of the Spanish during the Armada of 1558 led to England forging the beginning of her Empire. Remember to read the content carefully before attempting any activities.

Interact Icon.png Working through your coursebook

  • Make sure you take the time to read the content and take notes if necessary.
  • Complete the Similarity and Difference section on page 17.
  • Complete a mind map to discuss all the reasons why the Spanish lost OR complete the ‘Over to You’ section on page 19. Complete the task that you think will be best for your learning.
  • Complete both the ‘Over to You’ and Cause and Consequence section on page 21.

NewLearning.png Interactive Kerboodle Activities

Log into Kerboodle and complete these activities to further support and reinforce your learning:

  • In this film clip a gunner explains why the English navy defeated the Spanish Armada. This is super useful for your assignment where you have to analyse why the Spanish were defeated.

WATCH - 1.5A Film Clip: Cannons Links to an external site.

  • Watch the Armada animation carefully and then complete the activity on the next screen.

WATCH -1.5B Animation Links to an external site.

Stretch Icon.png Extension activity for this topic

  • If you want a challenge, complete the ‘Interpretation Analysis’ section on page 19 and discuss it with your observer.
  • This excellent book review details the counter expedition that the Britain lunched a year later. Although it primarily details a book review, it gives an excellent overview of the historiography of the events. (Challenge- find out what the word ‘historiography’ means) 

READ - The English Armada (Reviews in History) Links to an external site.

Link Icon.png Optional resources

  • Listen to this podcast about the road to war between England and Spain: 

LISTEN - The Coming of the Armada (History.org.uk) Links to an external site.

  • If you can access Dailymotion, this documentary on the reasons why the Armada failed is amazing and will massively help you with your assignment. 

WATCH - The Battle Against The Spanish Armada (Dailymotion) Links to an external site.