KS1 Pirates | KS1 Topic | Ages 5-7

What are pirates?

Pirates were travellers who sailed around the world in ships.

They searched for other ships to attack and rob.

They often stole valuable items like gold and spices.

Pirate ships sailed all over, from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean.

Pirates are so popular that there is a national day dedicated to them!

It is called 'Talk Like a Pirate Day'.

Have a look at the information, activities and videos below to learn all about the history of pirates.

Pirates have been around throughout history; however, many lived around 300 years ago.

Some of the things that we know about pirates are from stories, rather than from real life.

So what is pirate fact and what is pirate fiction? Have a look at this slideshow to find out.

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Fact - Pirates flew the Jolly Roger flag
This was usually a black flag with a white skull and crossbones. It was thought to be used to scare other ships and warn them that trouble was ahead.
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Fact - Pirates kept parrots on ships
It is thought that pirates kept parrots because they survived well on ships, which made them good pets. Others think that parrots were kept so that pirates could sell them for lots of money.
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Fiction - Pirates hunted for buried treasure
This is probably not true, as treasure would have been too heavy for their ships to carry.
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Fiction - Pirates walked the plank
This is probably not true. If they misbehaved, it is thought that pirates were likely to be put in a prison-hold on the ship, rather than be made to walk the plank.

There have been many famous pirates throughout history.

Have a look at this slideshow to learn more.

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Blackbeard
Perhaps one of the most famous pirates is Blackbeard. He was born around 1680 in Bristol. He is well-known for his long black hair and scary appearance.
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Anne Bonny and Mary Read
Anne Bonny and Mary Read were female pirates and crew mates in the 18th Century. There were very few female pirates at the time and it is thought that they both dressed as male pirates.

It's time to get crafty! Why not have a go at making your own treasure chest with this fun activity sheet?

You can learn more about famous pirates and important events through history.

Pirates sailed around the world in search of ships carrying valuable goods.

They visited many different countries.

Here is some more information and fun activities for you to learn more.

In the 1600s there were so many pirates, it was known as the 'Golden Age of Piracy'.

At this time, pirates sailed around many different places, including:

Hop on Captain Carrot’s ship and explore the world with the Pirate Bunnies in this fun geography game.

Learn more about some of the places pirates sailed to by following the links below.

Lots of things we know about pirates can be found in stories that have been told over hundreds of years.

In many stories, pirates hunted for buried treasure on islands by using a map with the letter ‘X’ marking where the treasure was buried.

Have a look at this information and activities below to learn more.

Every year, on 19th September, Talk Like a Pirate Day happens.

To help you get ready, have a look at this slideshow and learn the pirate lingo!

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Ahoy matey! Get ready to talk like a pirate!
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In heavy seas, ships would be lifted up and pounded down so hard as to "shiver" the timbers, which would startle the pirates.
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'Running a rig' on a ship is a great way to keep spirits high, but maybe don't prank the captain or you may be heading for the plank!
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Everyone loves a good 'scuttlebutt' now and then but remember, on a pirate ship the walls may have 'buccan-ears'.
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Try calling a 'parley' when you and your crew really need to get over a disagreement peacefully and sail on.
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So next time your ship-mate is feeling blue, or you run into a moody octopus - tell them a joke to stop them 'hanging the jib'.
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Now you can 'hornswoggle' your way through a pirate conversation with these top phrases. Avast me hearty, and good luck out on the high seas!