The Roman Empire has left a significant legacy in history, from its conquests to its architectural marvels. As a teacher, you can incorporate different activities to help your students learn about the Roman legacies.
Here are some activities to teach students about Roman legacies:
1) Building a Roman Arch – The Romans were known for their innovative engineering, particularly in building arches. You can teach your students about the different types of arches used in Roman architecture and then have them build a Roman arch using cardboard or popsicle sticks. This activity helps students understand the importance of engineering in ancient Rome and how it has influenced modern architecture systems.
2) Roman Cuisine – Food is an integral part of any culture, and the Roman Empire is no exception. You can introduce your students to the Roman diet and instruct them to prepare a Roman dish. For example, they can make a salad, which is similar to the ancient Roman version, or they can make a pasta dish using the common ingredients used in Roman dishes. This activity helps students understand the Roman legacy in terms of culture and traditions, as well as the importance of food in ancient Rome.
3) Roman Numerals – The Roman numeral system is still used today in clocks and for marking the pages in the book. To teach your students about the Roman numeral system, you can give them exercises on converting Arabic numerals to Roman numerals. You can also show other examples of Roman numerals in everyday objects. This activity helps students learn the basics of the Roman number system and how it has evolved over time.
4) Gladiator Games – The gladiator games were a crucial part of ancient Roman culture. Teach your students about the different types of gladiators and how they fought in the arena. You can also have a mock gladiator game in the classroom where students can take on different roles and learn about the rules of the game. This activity helps students understand the significance of the gladiator games in ancient Rome and how they have left their legacy in modern entertainment such as movies.
5) Roman Mythology – The Roman Empire had a rich mythological tradition that students can learn about. You can introduce your students to various gods and goddesses and their roles in Roman society. Students can also create a project where they create their own Roman God or Goddess based on their own interests. This activity helps students understand the mythology of ancient Rome, and how it continues to influence modern-day literature.
Conclusion
Teaching students about Roman legacies can be fun and engaging by incorporating various activities. These activities help students learn about the Roman Empire’s culture, traditions, engineering, and mythology. By understanding these aspects of ancient Rome’s legacy, students can gain a broader perspective on the advancement of social, literary, and engineering achievements that continue to influence us even today.
