This resource is an informative and entertaining 5-minute video that explains the significance of Viking ships to the success of Viking exploration. TED-Ed animations are excellent tools in providing all learners with explanations of complex ideas. The video is brief and yet covers most key points of the design and construction of Viking ships.
Structure and features
The 'What was so special about Viking ships?' resource provides:
- an entertaining and informative video with subtitles
- a summary of Viking boat building
- the importance of Viking boat building
- an ordered explanation of the development of the resource
- recommendations to test learning as well as extend understanding.
For teachers
This well animated and descriptive video provides excellent information about the importance of Viking ship design to the success of this civilisation. Geography, society and technological developments are discussed. Teachers could use this tool to:
- develop a sound understanding of Viking society
- examine where the Vikings explored
- understand how the ships were designed and built
- understand the benefit of particular resources and materials used in construction at the time.
This source could be used to develop an individual investigation on one of the ideas discussed. The website also provides 5 multiple choice and 6 open-ended questions. The Dig Deeper section provides more details and elaborations to explore. Two guided discussions can be used to extend student learning are also available.
