DORA & the Aliens provoked Key Stage 2 pupils to explore the effect of the Defence of the Realm Act (DORA) on people living in the North East of England during the First World War.
At the outbreak of war in 1914 a fear of ‘foreign spies’ became uppermost in the minds of the general public and prompted government legislation to control the movements of “aliens”, whether friendly, neutral or enemy. Four days after war was declared (8th August), the government gave itself sweeping new powers under the Defence of the Realm Act (DORA). All those who were not British citizens but living in this country were immediately required to register under the Aliens Registration Act.
Using Dramatic Enquiry (a blend of Philosophy for Children and theatre) this project enabled Year 5 pupils to think about what they would do. Given positions of power and influence how would they keep their citizens safe.
Free Education Pack for Key Stage 2 Pupils: Lesson Plans & Resources.
Project delivered by
Cap-a-Pie in collaboration with Ree Collins and Neil Tonge with support from Dr Paul Wright, Newcastle University
Thanks to our Funders
