Another name by which longships are known Viking Longships is Drakkar. This term was first used in a French translation and derived from the word dreki, dragon.

Speed Appearance They were long and narrow Power

The front end of the for travelling quickly� The were powered by wind would have a carved in a wool sail or manpower by through the water. This was figure head to scare off rowing with oars if there wasn't important for surprise attacks enemies and be and speedy getaways! any wind available. intimidating.

Steering One man would steer the ship by using a big steering oar at the back (stern) of the ship.

Protection Room The Viking men's shields A typical longship would have were tied over the oar enough room to fit around holes to protect both 50 - 60 people inside. Eating men and women during and sleeping were done on battles. deck.

As with all our reading activities, they can be printed off or read online and answered on paper, in home learning books, etc. The answers are on the last page. No peeking until you have finished. Have fun!

1. What features of the longship made it travel fast?

2. What was another name for a longship?

3. What two sources of power were used to make the ship move

4. Do you think wool is the preferred material used for sails on modern boats today? Why/why not?

5. How were the longships steered?

6. What were the men's shields used for on the longships?

7. What was on the front of the longship and what was it used for?

8. Why was the speed of the longship important for the ?

Answers 1. What features of the longship made it travel fast? They were long and narrow for travelling quickly through the water. 2. What was another name for a longship? Another name by which Viking longships are known is Drakkar. This term was first used in a French translation and derived from the word dreki, dragon. 3. What two sources of power were used to make the ship move The ships were powered by wind in a wool sail or manpower by rowing with oars if there wasn't any wind available. 4. Do you think wool is the preferred material used for sails on modern boats today? Why/why not? Any plausible answer, e.g. no because wool is too expensive/because we have newer materials to use today/because wool is not waterproof. 5. How were the longships steered? One man would steer the ship by using a big steering oar at the back (stern) of the ship. 6. What were the men's shields used for on the longships? The Viking men's shields were tied over the oar holes to protect both men and women during battles. 7. What was on the front of the longship and what was it used for? The front end of the ship would have a carved figure head to scare off enemies and be intimidating. 8. Why was the speed of the longship important for the Vikings? This was important for surprise attacks and speedy getaways!