Lesson	Time Allocation	Resources Needed	Introduction	Development	Conclusion	Assessment
1: History of Ballinasloe Co. Galway	60 minutes	History books, internet access, whiteboard	Begin by discussing the meaning of the placename Ballinasloe, explaining how the town got its name.	1. Kids will research the history of Ballinasloe. 2. Students will create a timeline of important events. 3. A discussion on how the town has evolved over time.	Review the key historical events and their impact on Ballinasloe.	Students will be assessed on their participation in the discussion and the accuracy of their timelines.
2: Notable Person from the Area	60 minutes	Biography books, internet access, whiteboard	Introduce the notable person from Ballinasloe, John Augustus O'Shea, a famous war correspondent.	1. Students will research and discuss the life of O'Shea. 2. Write a short essay on the impact of O'Shea's work. 3. Role play an interview with O'Shea.	Reflect on the contributions of O'Shea to journalism and war reporting.	Assessment will be based on the essay and the role play activity.
3: Geography of Ballinasloe	60 minutes	Maps, internet access, geography books	Discuss the natural features of Ballinasloe, highlighting the River Suck.	1. Students will learn about the different natural features in and around Ballinasloe. 2. Draw a map of the natural features. 3. Discuss how these features have influenced the town's development.	Review the importance of natural features to a town's development.	Students will be assessed on participation and their map drawing skills.
4: Mapping Skills	60 minutes	Maps of Ballinasloe, pencils, rulers	Discuss the importance of maps and how to read them.	1. Students will practice reading a map of Ballinasloe. 2. Create their own map of the town. 3. Use their map to give directions from one location to another.	Reflect on the importance of accurate map reading and creating skills.	Assessment will be based on the accuracy of the student's maps and directions.
5: Biodiversity and Conservation	60 minutes	Internet access, field guides, local park access	Introduce the concept of biodiversity and its importance.	1. Students will identify different species in a local park. 2. Discuss the importance of each species to the ecosystem. 3. Brainstorm ways to protect local biodiversity.	Review the importance of conservation and discuss the student's ideas for protection.	Assessment will be based on participation in the discussion and the variety of species identified.
6: Visual Arts	60 minutes	Art supplies, pictures of Ballinasloe	Discuss how the local area can inspire art.	1. Students will choose a picture of Ballinasloe to recreate. 2. Create their artwork using their chosen medium. 3. Share their artwork with the class and discuss their inspiration.	Reflect on the variety of interpretations of the same scene.	Assessment will be based on the effort put into the artwork and the discussion of their inspiration.