Students learn about the lasting impact of ancient Rome on Western civilization. First, they watch a rap video to become engaged with the topic. Then, they read sources containing concise descriptions of Roman achievements in many fields. Next, they look for examples of the Roman legacy in the world around them. Finally, they read, write, and talk about similarities and differences between ancient Rome and the United States.
Students are introduced to the idea that the Roman Empire still influences the modern world and review the lesson objective. They view an image of the Roman Forum and watch Legacy of Ancient Rome Rap to learn or recall key facts about Roman history and achievements, then list several facts they learned or re-learned from the video in a shared table.
Teacher MovesBriefly outline the flow and objective of the experience so students understand they will be tracing Rome’s influence on today’s world. After the video, prompt students to record specific facts from the rap in the class table and ensure all students contribute before unlocking the next scene.
Students examine an image of a Roman aqueduct and read background text explaining how Latin influenced English and how Roman achievements appear in many areas of life. They read Ancient Rome: Legacy of Rome and Roman Achievements and Inventions to learn about notable elements of Rome’s legacy in government, law, language, art and architecture, engineering and construction, religion, literature and mythology, and science, math, and health. As they read, they complete a graphic organizer by taking notes on Roman contributions in each of these categories.
Teacher MovesHave students share and compare their notes from the graphic organizer, then summarize the key Roman contributions with the class to highlight major themes across government, culture, and technology before moving on.
Students view an image of a fresco in the U.S. Capitol featuring the Latin phrase “E Pluribus Unum” and consider how Rome’s influence appears in their own world. They post one or more examples of the lasting impact of ancient Rome today—identifying a specific example and explaining how it reflects Roman influence—on a shared class wall. They then read classmates’ posts and respond to at least two with a question or positive comment.
Teacher MovesUse students’ posts as a springboard for a whole-class discussion. Ask questions such as what aspects of modern life might not exist in the same form without the Romans and which Roman achievements students consider most significant, drawing connections among student examples.
Students examine an image of the “Enthroned Washington” statue and read background text about how U.S. founders drew inspiration from ancient Rome. They read the table “Parallels between Ancient Rome and Modern America” in Rome V. America: When Nations Die and then read 5 Reasons Why America Will Not Collapse Like the Roman Empire to compare perspectives on similarities and differences between Rome and the United States. Drawing on evidence from both texts, they write one or two paragraphs responding to the prompt “Is America the new Rome or not?” and post their opinion with supporting evidence on a class wall.
Teacher MovesGuide students in comparing the two articles, prompting them to infer each author’s bias by noting that the first is hosted on a conservative news site and the second on a liberal site. Encourage students to use evidence from both sources in their written opinions, and share an interesting or exemplary response with the class to foster further discussion about the parallels and differences between Rome and the United States.
Students complete the exit quiz by answering all the questions.
Teacher MovesFacilitate the assessment and use student data to evaluate understanding, address misconceptions, and identify areas for growth.
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