The Process

Part 1 - Finding out what the Abbey looked like

Let's get started with the research. You will need a notebook and sketchbook, you might decide to work with a friend or on your own.

1. First, let's look at some of the sources which illustrate and provide evidence of the abbey's past. See what clues you can get from the first 3 sources below.

Bordesley Abbey ruins from the East, showing external wall of south transept.

3. At this stage let's have a look at other monasteries which were built by the Cistercians across Europe, including The British Isles. If you look at the chart you will see just how many Cistercian abbeys were being built at this time. Click on the map to see just a few of these.What clues do these buildings give you that might help with your research?

4. Open 'What the artists got right' worksheet Make a list of all the things you think Woodward and Walsh got right in their paintings. Use the floor plan (Source 4), the photo of the site today (Source1) and the photos of other Cistercian abbeys in Europe as your evidence.

Part 2
Finding out about the land around the abbey

By now you have explored several bits of evidence and started to draw conclusions about the abbey's buildings, but what about what went on outside the buildings, in the grounds and surrounding landscape? Here are 4 more pieces of evidence which you may find useful. Explore sources 7,8,9 and 10 . See what you can find out and remember to consider whether the information is fact or opinion.

To help you record your ideas click on Notes on Evidence

Source 7

Excerpt from 'The History of Bordesley Abbey'

Source 8

Recipe for Medieval pottage

Source 9

Landscape around the Abbey

Source 10

Plans of precincts of Cistercian Abbeys.

Part 3
Finding out about what went on in the abbey

You are near the end of the quest. Have a look at the 'Bordesley Abbey Challenge' to see how much you have learnt so far (and to have some fun!) here is a worksheet to record what you have learnt.

Read the following instructions before starting before starting the challenge.

When you go on to the challenge you will see a ground plan map of Bordesley Abbey on the left of the screen and a 3 dimensional interpretation on the right. You need to look at the shape of the building each monk works in and see which part of the 3D model matches. Then drag the building shape from the top of the screen on to the ground plan version.

We hope you enjoyed the challenge and are ready to return to the quest......

Now is the exciting moment when you put all your sketches and findings together for the graphic designer. The help sheet may be a good tool.

The way you choose to present your work to the museum manager depends on you and the resources in your school.You may be able to use computer software and complete the task by designing a virtual Bordesley Abbey yourself. You may do sketches and drawings. You may go further and create a 3D model from materials in the Art room.

If you are pleased with what you have produce, you might like to contact the museum and send them a digital image. If you make a model, they may be able to use it with visitors, why not get in touch and ask!