King George VI: A Time of Trial | Historical Writing Prompt & Essay Rubric | Grades 9–12

King George VI: A Time of Trial

Walk in Their Skin — Historical Writing Prompt

History provides the evidence. Empathy guides the questions.

On September 3, 1939, King George VI addressed the British people as their country entered World War II.

Millions heard the voice of their king. But what did they know about the man behind the words?

Born Prince Albert, the second son of King George V, he never expected to inherit the throne. He had lived with a pronounced stammer since childhood and spent years working with speech therapist Lionel Logue.

When his older brother abdicated in 1936, Albert unexpectedly became King George VI. Three years later, he faced the responsibility of addressing a nation preparing for war.

What can understanding his personal struggles, unexpected responsibilities, and historical circumstances teach us about the words he chose to speak?

What's Included

This 6-page historical writing mini-unit provides:

• An introduction exploring the power of words and the importance of understanding the person speaking them
• Personal historical background on Prince Albert, his stammer, and his unexpected rise to the throne
• A concise explanation of the circumstances surrounding his September 3, 1939 address
• A QR code linking students to the historic speech recording
• A 4–6 paragraph historical research and analytical essay assignment
• Research guidance and source references
• A 16-point essay grading rubric

More Than a History Assignment

Students are encouraged to look beyond a famous historical moment and consider the individual who experienced it.

Using documented historical evidence, they investigate how George VI's life, responsibilities, and experiences provide context for understanding his speech.

The assignment emphasizes research, critical thinking, historical accuracy, empathy, and organized essay writing.

Students are encouraged to distinguish historical facts from assumptions about another person's private thoughts or feelings.

Ideal For

• High school students in grades 9–12
• Homeschool families
• English Language Arts
• Historical research and essay writing
• Speech and rhetorical analysis
• Character education and empathy studies
• Independent writing assignments

Format: Printable PDF

Length: 6 pages

Suggested Grade Levels: 9–12

This is a standalone writing assignment adapted from Hancock Learning Studio's larger Walk in Their Skin: King

George VI — A Time of Trial speech study.

No purchase of the complete study is required.

History provides the evidence. Empathy guides the questions.

Digital download only. No physical product will be shipped.