ANZAC Day Reading, Writing and Craft Tasks

ANZAC Day is an important part of our history. It is a day where we commemorate (not celebrate) with our New Zealand neighbours.

This event is a huge part of our Australian and New Zealand shared history. It is a huge responsibility to make sure we engage our students in the recognition and commemoration of this event. We have created some ANZAC Day Reading, Writing and Craft ideas that will assist in building their knowledge and understanding of the sacrifices that have been made.

It is a national day of remembrance held in Australia and New Zealand on the 25th of April every year. The day commemorates the soldiers who served and died at Gallipoli in World War I.

Our Reading, Writing and Craft tasks cater for any level and have many tasks to choose from. We have created a PowerPoint that you can share that clearly outlines the mateship, perseverance and honour that our soldiers shared. We have recipes and crafts that will add value to your history lessons.

ANZAC Day Meaningful Activities in the Classroom

ANZAC Day holds deep historical significance, and teaching primary students about it requires a balance of respect, understanding, and engagement.
By incorporating interactive lessons, storytelling, and reflection, educators can help young learners appreciate the sacrifices made by Australian and New Zealand service members.
Here’s how to create a meaningful ANZAC Day experience in your classroom.

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Start with an Engaging Story

Children connect best with history through storytelling.
Begin with an age-appropriate picture book such as ANZAC Ted by Belinda Landsberry or My Grandad Marches on ANZAC Day by Catriona Hoy.
Pause to discuss key moments and ask students how they think the characters felt.
This helps build empathy and understanding.

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Create a Visual Timeline

To help students grasp the historical context, work together to build a simple ANZAC Day timeline.
Highlight key events such as the Gallipoli landing on April 25, 1915, and the establishment of ANZAC Day commemorations.
Use images, drawings, or printed facts to make the timeline interactive and engaging.

Participate in a Classroom Ceremony

Bring the significance of ANZAC Day to life by holding a mini ceremony.
Play The Last Post, observe a moment of silence, and discuss why these traditions matter.
Encourage students to create paper poppies and place them on a classroom wreath.
This hands-on approach fosters appreciation and respect.

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Explore the Role of ANZAC Animals

Many students connect deeply with animals, so introduce them to the vital roles animals played during wartime.
Share stories about Simpson and his donkey or the courageous war horses.
Students can draw or write about how these animals helped soldiers, making history feel more personal and accessible.

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Bake ANZAC Biscuits Together

A simple yet powerful way to connect with ANZAC history is through food.
Explain how ANZAC biscuits became a wartime staple, then bake a batch together or send home a recipe for families to try.
While waiting for the biscuits to bake, discuss how food was rationed during wartime and what challenges soldiers faced.

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Reflect Through Art and Writing

End the lesson with a creative activity.
Have students write a thank-you letter to a soldier or create artwork that represents what ANZAC Day means to them.
Display their work in the classroom or send letters to veterans as a real-world connection.
By blending history with hands-on activities, primary students develop a lasting appreciation for ANZAC Day.
Through stories, ceremonies, and creative projects, they learn the importance of remembrance and respect in a way that resonates with their young minds.

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Here are some book recommendations for you…

There are so many books available to read to your grade. We have created a variety of templates for you to use with any book and you can choose to read any you that have. Use these in small groups or in whole-grade tasks. These templates have been easy for us to use and our students always enjoy using them. The reflection at the conclusion has always been a highlight for me, as the insights our students have can be amazing. Some books are challenging for some students as they can be quite emotional. Make sure that your students are supported and that you have many discussions about the content of any books that are shared.

If you use any of our work and take photos – please tag us in them on Instagram @paulas_place

books to read