The Industrial Revolution in a local area
Chris Culpin
About the Case Study
Most Key Stage 3 textbook treatments of the Industrial Revolution only describe  industrial changes in the textile industry in parts of Lancashire with perhaps a mention of coal-mining and iron smelting. But the Industrial Revolution was a many-sided phenomenon which produced profound and lasting changes over the whole country. Many of the results of these changes can still be seen in the built environment.
This unit uses the huge potential of the Images of England site to help pupils find buildings and structures with industrial connotations and use them as evidence of how far the area where they live was affected by the Industrial Revolution.
Where the Case Study fits in
The Case Study has been designed to fit into KS3 History unit "Britain 1750-1900". The material has therefore been prepared for Years 8/9.
This unit specifies: "A study of how…industrialisation…affected the United Kingdom, including the local area". The requirement to investigate a local angle is laudable, but has produced problems for many teachers.
The approach in this Case Study meets the requirements for local study without the time-consuming research and preparation local history demands. The Case Study also provides opportunities for pupils to work at historical interpretations, item 3 of the "Knowledge, Skills and Understanding" in NC History at KS3.
The Case-Study is expected to take a lesson and a homework.
Prior Learning
Pupils need to have
- some knowledge and understanding of the Industrial Revolution.
- considered questions of interpretation.
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