King George VI: A Time of Trial | Walk in Their Skin — Historical Speech & Empathy Study

King George VI: A Time of Trial

Walk in Their Skin — Historical Speech & Empathy Study

History provides the evidence. Empathy guides the questions.

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

Millions heard the voice of their king. But how many understood the man behind the words?

King George VI faced the responsibility of reassuring a nation during a time of extraordinary uncertainty. He also lived with a speech impediment and had worked for years to develop greater confidence in public speaking.

Walk in Their Skin: A Time of Trial invites high school students to look beyond the famous speech and discover the person who delivered it.

This study is not simply a history lesson. Using historical evidence, original recordings, research, and thoughtful reflection, students explore the relationship between personal challenges, public responsibility, communication, and empathy.

What's Included

This 18-page printable PDF study includes:

Historical background surrounding September 3, 1939

QR codes connecting students to historical recordings

Listening comprehension and speech analysis

Research into King George VI and speech therapist Lionel Logue

Historical speech exercises and tongue-twister practice

Activities examining perseverance, courage, and leadership

Reflection questions exploring the person behind the public figure

Analysis of the king's words, tone, audience, and message

A 3–6 paragraph analytical essay assignment

A 16-point essay grading rubric

Parent/teacher guidance and historical source references

More Than a Speech Study

Students are encouraged to distinguish documented historical facts from assumptions about another person's private experiences.

They examine what others could see and hear, investigate what history reveals, and consider how a fuller understanding of someone's life may change the way we interpret their words.

The lessons also encourage students to apply that perspective-taking to the people they encounter in everyday life.

Ideal For

High school students, approximately grades 9–12

Homeschool families

English Language Arts and literature studies

Historical speech and rhetorical analysis

Character education and empathy studies

Independent research and writing assignments

Format: Digital PDF download

Length: 18 pages

Price: $3.99

Printing: Designed for printing or completing written responses on separate paper. Open response areas contain no writing lines.

This is an individual study within Hancock Learning Studio's growing Walk in Their Skin collection, which examines historical speeches through the lives and circumstances of the people who delivered them.

History provides the evidence. Empathy guides the questions.

Digital product only. No physical item will be shipped.