Coat of Arms Lesson | Heraldry Project | Middle Ages Activity

Description

Bring the Middle Ages to life with this engaging, creative coat of arms project. Students explore identity, symbolism, and the real challenges knights faced… then design their own medieval “identity.”

Bring the Middle Ages to life with this engaging Coat of Arms lesson and project!

Students explore the real challenge knights faced on the battlefield—how do you know who is on your side when everyone looks the same? From there, they discover how heraldry and coats of arms solved this problem.

This lesson combines visual learning, discussion, and creativity as students design their own personalized shield using historical symbolism.

What’s Included:

• Ready-to-use PowerPoint lesson (hook + guided discussion)

• Symbolism reference guide (colors, animals, and symbols)

• Student worksheet with directions and reflection questions

• Blank shield template for student design

• Clear grading rubric (20 points total)

What Students Will Do:

• Analyze a real historical problem (battlefield confusion)

• Learn how coats of arms functioned as identification

• Interpret symbols and their meanings

• Create a personal coat of arms based on identity and values

Why Teachers Love It:

• Minimal prep

• Highly engaging (students LOVE designing shields)

• Strong connection to medieval history content

• Built-in critical thinking + creativity

Perfect for:

• Middle Ages units

• World History classes

• Sub plans or enrichment activities

• Cross-curricular connections (history + art)