The Role of Women in World War One

The First World War occurred between the years of 1914-1918. In 1916, Britain introduced conscription, resulting in all single men between the ages of 19-41, being sent to perform their ‘duty’ and fight in the war. As a result of this, many men, whose traditional role was to go out and earn a living for themselves or their family, no longer could. Therefore, women had to become more involved in the work force and began to attain professional jobs. This scene takes the form of an ammunition factory, where many women learnt traditional working skills.

# Learning objectives

1: Describe the traditional role of women before the First World War {.info}

2: Describe how the war effected the lives of women between 1914-1918 {.info}

3: Explain the impact and significance the First World War had on the role of women {.info}

# What was the role of women before the war? {.objective .objective1}

Before the war, a woman’s role was in the home. Women should be quiet and submissive characters. Students are asked to explore the scene and identify how the government encouraged women to join the workforce.

# How did the war effect the lives of women? {.objective .objective2}

From 1914-19189, women’s employment increased. As a result, many women began learning ‘work skills’ and were able to step away from their traditional role of angel in the house. Here students can see which types of working skills women gained and their roles and responsibilities inside a factory.

# What was the impact of the First World War for women? {.objective .objective3}

After the success of women working in factories, some ammunition factories were forced to close, leaving women without a job, having to return the pre-war life. However, some women were able to stay working. Students should explore the scene and discuss the positives and negatives for women who were returning to life pre-war.

# Teacher Resources

### Download Teacher Notes

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### Student Quiz Answers Document

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### Download Student Quiz Document

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