Daily News Lesson

SHOW ALL

Sept. 8, 2022, 8:10 p.m.

Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, dies at 96

Summary

Queen Elizabeth II, the longest reigning monarch in British history, died Thursday at age 96, after she was placed under medical supervision for failing health. The royal family announced her death, saying the queen “died peacefully” at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. For a full account of Queen Elizabeth's life, see this story .

Five Facts

  • Who was Queen Elizabeth II?
  • Where did Queen Elizabeth rule?
  • What is the Commonwealth, and what are some of the countries that are part of it?
  • When did Queen Elizabeth become queen?
  • How might Elizabeth be remembered, according to this story?

Focus Questions

Why do you think the United Kingdom still has a monarchy? What do you think it means to the people of the United Kingdom? What about countries that used to be part of the British Empire? Media literacy: What details would you like to know about Queen Elizabeth's life that were left out of this account?

For More

To learn more about Queen Elizabeth's life and legacy, read this and watch the accompanying video (or watch the video below):

Fill out this form to share your thoughts on Classroom’s resources. Sign up for NewsHour Classroom’s ready-to-go Daily News Lessons delivered to your inbox each morning.

Recent Daily News Lessons

US President Donald Trump at America.gov launch

Daily News Lesson

Should AI companies be allowed to 'self-regulate'?

Discuss the reasons many experts are calling for independent review of AI companies

health

Daily News Lesson

Monitoring the Midterms: Health care costs a major concern for voters ahead of midterms

Learn about the rise in healthcare costs and thousands losing their coverage

dance-1024x576

Daily News Lesson

Syrian dancer reflects on escaping ISIS and finding freedom through ballet

Ahmad Joudeh is a ballet dancer of unusual grace and grit. His story is one of perseverance and unwavering dedication to his passion.

treasure-1024x576

Daily News Lesson

Restored Greek Byzantine palace offers blueprint for preserving cultural heritage

The Greek culture ministry has opened a stunning, restored palace from the Byzantine era in the 1300s.

SUPPORTED BY VIEWERS LIKE YOU. ADDITIONAL SUPPORT PROVIDED BY:

PBS News Hour Classroom

Copyright © 2025 News Hour Production LLC. All Rights Reserved

Illustrations by Annamaria Ward