WW2 Evacuation Diary Writing Worksheet
Learning Objective: Pupils can write a diary entry from the perspective of a WW2 evacuee
About this resource
This engaging KS2 worksheet helps Year 5 pupils step into the shoes of a World War Two evacuee, guiding them to write a compelling diary entry from that unique perspective. Teachers can use this resource to deepen understanding of historical events and foster empathy, directly supporting the UK National Curriculum's history objectives on significant turning points in British history. It provides a structured yet creative way for children to explore the social impact of the war.
Introduction
Imagine you are a child living in London in 1939. War has been declared and you are being evacuated to the countryside. You must leave your family, your home, and everything you know. Today, you will write a diary entry about your evacuation journey.
Foundation Task
Complete the diary template:
Date: September 1939
Dear Diary,
Today I had to leave ____________. I felt ____________ because ____________.
On the train, I could see ____________. The other children were ____________.
When I arrived at ____________, my new family looked ____________.
I miss ____________ the most.
From, ____________
Core Task
Write a full diary entry (at least 10 sentences) describing your evacuation day. Include:
- How you felt leaving home
- What you saw on the journey
- Your first impressions of the countryside
- How your host family treated you
- What you miss most about home
Use emotive language and first person throughout.
Challenge Task
Write two diary entries:
- The day you were evacuated (September 1939)
- Six months later — how has your life changed?
Include: contrasting emotions, descriptive language, historical details about rationing and wartime life, and reflection on how the experience has changed you.
Key Vocabulary
evacuee, billeting officer, gas mask, ration book, Anderson shelter, Blitz, homesick, countryside, host family, identity label
Differentiation
SEN Support
Use the Foundation task template. Provide word bank with emotive vocabulary. Allow verbal dictation if needed.
EAL Support
Key vocabulary with images provided. Sentence starters in the Foundation task. Bilingual dictionary available.
Gifted & Talented
Complete the Challenge task with both diary entries. Use advanced vocabulary and include historically accurate details.
Key Vocabulary
Assessment Criteria
- Uses first person consistently
- Includes emotive language
- Demonstrates historical understanding of evacuation
Cross-Curricular Links
Teaching World War Two? Giant Journeys brings history to life with an immersive WW2 workshop — evacuation, the Blitz, rationing, and the home front, all experienced first-hand. Visit: https://www.giantjourneys.co.uk