As one of the iconic landmarks of London, Big Ben has captivated the hearts and imagination of people from all over the world. It is the pride of the UK, and almost everyone would recognize Big Ben when they see it. However, how many of us know the history behind this iconic landmark? As a teacher, you have the opportunity to educate students about the history of Big Ben and its significance to the UK.
Like any other cultural symbols, Big Ben is not just a piece of architecture. It represents the rich history and heritage of the United Kingdom and the values that the nation holds dear. As a teacher, it is essential to take your students on a journey of discovery into a rich and profound history of Big Ben, its evolution, and its place in society.
The following steps can be used to teach students about the history of Big Ben in an exciting and interactive way:
1. Provide an Introduction:
Give your students an overview of what Big Ben is, its significance, and how it is vital to the UK. Give a brief history lesson of the UK, including its culture, government, and language.
2. Explain the History:
The history of Big Ben is closely intertwined with the history of the UK. Explain that it was named after Sir Benjamin Hall, who was a bell-maker and was also known for his works in the government. Big Ben started clocking in 1859, and it was the most extensive four-faced chiming clock in the world at the time of installation. Students can take part in a group research project, researching the history and the timeline.
3. Understand the Significance:
Dig deeper into the significance of Big Ben to the UK. Start by explaining how Big Ben is essential to the functioning of the UK government. Big Ben plays a crucial role in keeping the government running effectively, and serves as an important symbol of timekeeping, accuracy, and punctuality.
4. Take a Virtual Tour:
Take students on a virtual tour of Big Ben. Explain the architecture, design, and the technology used to construct it. A virtual tour helps students to put things in perspective, and they can relate to what they have learned from books.
5. Look to the Future:
The teaching of the history of Big Ben would not be complete without looking to the future. As a teacher, you can encourage your students to imagine what life would be like without Big Ben. Ask them to brainstorm about the things that will change if there was no Big Ben, and how it would affect the UK.
In conclusion, teaching students about the history of Big Ben can be an enjoyable and interactive process. By taking them on a journey through the history of the landmark, you can help them to appreciate the symbolism behind Big Ben, and how it continues to shape the culture and identity of the UK. Through understanding the significance and impact of this landmark on the culture and society of the UK, students will better appreciate the importance of history and heritage in shaping a nation.
