In the Tower of London, the Crown Jewels twinkle in glass boxes. However, some of the boxes are now empty, with sayings "in use". The missing regalia will be used at the King's coronation.
This resources pack includes an article from The Week Junior magazine, along with a sheet of activities designed to get children thinking, talking and writing about what the story means to them.
Oracy
The Crown Jewels are stunning and unique, but do we actually need them? Is it really necessary to have such excessive displays of wealth these days? Aren’t they an uncomfortable reminder of some of the worst behaviours of the British Empire?
Or do you think they are an important part of our cultural heritage as symbols of our rich history? Aren’t they a key part of one of this country’s main attractions for tourists – the Royal Family?
Wouldn’t it be a shame to sell them off as the money raised would be only a fraction of what it takes to run this country? What do you think?
Writing skills
Imagine you have just been to see the Crown Jewels. Write a diary entry of your visit, using your best vocabulary to describe not just what they look like but how they make you feel.
Or
Imagine it has been decided to sell the Crown Jewels. Design an advertisement for them, remembering to use your most persuasive language and include an eye-catching, possibly amusing, headline.
Investigate
Apart from the United Kingdom, which other European countries have constitutional monarchies where the king or queen has little power and whose role is mainly for ceremonial purposes?
Find the entire series of Topical Tuesday resources to download in our Topical Tuesdays collection.
What is The Week Junior?
The Week Junior magazine looks at current affairs and helps children make sense of the world, provides context and clarity to complex issues, improves general knowledge and encourages discussion and debate.
To find out more about The Week Junior and to download its free resources, please go to The Week Junior website.