Overview
During this lesson pupils explore the concept of marriage and civil partnerships focusing on the fact that they are a legal commitment between two people and what this means.
Pupils examine how the law surrounding marriages and civil partnerships has changed since the 18th century and what impact this might have on a set of fictional couples.
Prior to the lesson it would be useful for pupils to have a basic understanding of how the rule of law operates in the UK. You might therefore find it helpful to have delivered the two lessons listed in the related lesson section prior to delivering this lesson.
More Lessons resources
Social Media and the Law (KS3) (SmartLaw Subscription)
Students explore the law in relation to social media posts, the types of offences that people are committing (whether knowingly or not) and the consequences of committing these offences. The…
Water: Our Most Precious Resource
In this lesson pupils will learn about the qualities of water and why it is vital to life on Earth. They will consider the problems facing people who cannot…
What is a Vote?
In this lesson pupils will learn what it means to vote by looking at relatable examples in the lives of the Go-Givers. They will consider why and how votes are…
More Relationships resources
Belonging to Groups
This assembly asks children to think about the groups they belong to, and how groups can be used for good or bad. It includes ideas for demonstrating how we can…
The Golden Statue
In this lesson pupils will read an adapted version of a Buddhist legend that encourages them to reflect on how the generosity with which a gift is given is more…
The Selfish Little Red Hen
In this lesson pupils will read and discuss the tale of the Selfish Little Red Hen who does not offer her friend any help as she prepares for a party.…
More Understanding Rules & The Law resources
What Happens When Rules are Broken?
Pupils consider what happens when rules are broken. They explore what consequences are, how we can ensure that consequences are fair and what information someone might need to have before…
Magistrates’ Court Mock Trial Competition 2025/26: Preparation Resources (England, Wales, Northern Ireland)
School Guide – This guide contains all of the information to support the lead teacher and support teachers in preparing for the competition. Student Guides – Each student guide contains an…
The Big Legal Lesson 2026 (ages 5-11)
Join the UK's biggest legal education campaign during February 2025.
More KS2 (ages 7-11) resources
The Value of Trees
This lesson is one of a collection which examine environmental issues. In this lesson pupils will learn about the role trees play in supporting life on Earth and their importance…
Understanding Cancer
Many children in classrooms all around the country are dealing with cancer in one way or another at any given time. This lesson seeks to answer some of their questions…