Topical Talk

Flags: symbols of unity or causes of conflict?

Across the world, flying a flag can be a powerful symbol of unity and pride. But flags can also cause division.

Collage of pages from the “Flags: symbols of unity or causes of conflict?” teaching resource showing the cover and lesson plan

Published 17 October 2025

About this lesson

Recently in the UK, the St. George's flag has been used to express anti-immigration views and the Palestinian flag was banned from a music festival. In the US, the national flag has been flown upside-down in protest.

What do flags represent to different people? And can a flag ever truly stand for everyone?

Use this lesson to help students:

  • Recognise different flags
  • Explore how flags have been used for different purposes
  • Debate the questions and conflicts surrounding flags

Skills and knowledge

  • Speaking

    Step 8: Using facts
    I use facts and examples to support my communication
    Did you use facts and examples from the news story to support your discussions?

    Step 12: Adaptive communicating
    I adapt my communication depending on audience reactions
    Did you adapt your communication when discussing the news story to engage your group?

    Step 13: Negotiating
    I manage discussions effectively to reach an agreement
    Did you manage discussions when identifying the flags to come to an agreed answer?

  • Knowledge

    I know that flags are used for many different reasons and can create powerful feelings that cause both unity and conflict
    What are three examples of how a flag has been used?

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