This children’s article, Joan of Arc: the girl who commanded an army, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children build vocabulary, learn about history, and discover the amazing story of a teenage girl who became a French hero. Written by Mark Pulley, a teacher and writer who creates fun and informative news articles for English learners.
A girl from a small village
Joan of Arc was born in 1412 in a tiny French village called Domrémy. Her family were farmers, and Joan grew up helping on the farm. She tended to the animals and did many chores around the house. She could not read or write, but she was very religious and spent a lot of time in church.
As a young teenager, Joan began to hear voices in her head, and she started to believe that she had been chosen by God to help her country. At that time, France was at war with England in what’s known as the Hundred Years’ War.
From farm girl to leader
When she was only 17 years old, Joan travelled to Paris to find the French prince, known as the Dauphin (later King Charles VII). She convinced him to let her lead an army, even though she had no military training! People thought it was impossible, but Joan wore armour, carried a banner, and inspired the soldiers with her courage.
Her leadership helped France win important battles, including lifting the siege of Orléans in 1429. Suddenly, everyone knew the name Joan of Arc.
Her capture and trial
Sadly, Joan’s story took a darker turn. In 1430, she was captured by the English and put on trial for her beliefs. She was accused of many things, including wearing men’s clothes and claiming to hear voices from God.
At just 19 years old, Joan was sentenced to death. She was burned at the stake in 1431. Many people were shocked and believed she was treated unfairly.
A lasting legacy
Even though Joan’s life was short, her story lived on. Nearly 500 years later, in 1920, the Catholic Church declared her a saint.
Today, Joan of Arc is remembered as one of France’s greatest heroes, a brave young girl who followed her beliefs, commanded an army and changed history.
Article vocabulary list
- Village – a small town in the countryside
- Chores – small jobs around the house or farm
- Religious – having strong beliefs about God
- Prince / Dauphin – the son of a king, or the heir to the throne
- Armour – metal clothing worn for protection in battle
- Siege – when an army surrounds a city or castle to capture it
- Trial – when someone is judged in court
- Saint – a holy person honoured by the Church
Comprehension questions
Just click the plus (+) to see the answer
1. Where was Joan of Arc born?
A) Paris
B) Domrémy
C) Orléans
Answer: B) Domrémy
2. What war was happening during Joan’s lifetime?
A) The Hundred Years’ War
B) The First World War
C) The War of the Roses
Answer: A) The Hundred Years’ War
3. At what age did Joan lead an army?
A) 15
B) 17
C) 19
Answer: B) 17
4. How did Joan of Arc die?
A) In battle
B) From illness
C) She was burned at the stake
Answer: C) She was burned at the stake
5. When was Joan made a saint?
A) 1431
B) 1920
C) 1500
Answer: B) 1920
Mark is a writer and EFL teacher from England with eight years’ experience. He’s passionate about travel, sport (especially football), animals, nature, and history, and enjoys helping children explore the world through language and learning.
