Vikings Scheme of Work

(ages 12-13)

This six-week practical scheme uses Norse beliefs, mythology and researched Viking facts to support character-focused drama work. Students create and sustain a range of roles from everyday people to gods and mythical creatures through interactive, hands-on activities designed to build ensemble awareness, imaginative responses and core drama form understanding. The unit aims to make historical content accessible through practical exploration rather than written tasks, suitable for classroom drama sequences where character and storytelling are the priority.

What Students Will Learn

Across the unit students will develop characterisation skills, sustain roles and respond imaginatively to Norse myths and historical context. They will explore ensemble dynamics and storytelling through practical activities that require maintaining character types, making imaginative choices and working collaboratively to create short devised pieces grounded in Viking themes.

Week 1: Who Were the Vikings?
Focuses on initial character creation linked to Norse beliefs and Viking context. Students engage in interactive practical activities to begin building and sustaining distinct characters rooted in myth and everyday Viking life.
Resources Include
Powerpoint Slides
Who were the Vikings?
Week 2: Norse Gods & Goddesses
Develops character maintenance and role detail through exploration of Norse gods and creatures. Students take part in interactive practical activities to refine physical and imaginative choices while working as an ensemble.
Resources Include
Resources
Thor in Utgard
Week 3: The Creation Story
Explores relationships between characters within Viking society and myths. Students use interactive practical activities to create short scenes that demonstrate character interaction and group dynamics.
Resources Include
Resources
The Creation
Week 4: A Viking Feast
Focuses on combining historical facts with mythical elements to enrich character choices. Students participate in interactive practical activities to heighten roles and develop coherent devised moments.
Week 5: Ride of the Valkyries
Works towards short devised pieces that showcase maintained characters and ensemble work. Students use interactive practical activities to rehearse and polish group-devised extracts rooted in Viking themes.
Resources Include
Music
Ride of the Valkyries
Week 6: The Assessment
Consolidates character work and group devising in a final practical outcome. Students present devised pieces created from earlier sessions and reflect on sustaining characters within Norse-themed scenes.