Summer SAVY, Session 1 Day 2, Ancient Roots and Ruins (5th – 6th)
We had another fun day in Ancient Roman Ruins! This morning, we picked up right where we left off by learning about daily life in the Roman Republic. We studied the patricians and plebian classes, the government structure, the election process for consul members, and the process for joining the senate. We then transformed our classroom into the Roman senate floor by giving students senatorial roles and holding a class debate. The students later reported that this activity was the highlight of the day!
After finishing our study of life during the Roman Republic, we transitioned to learning about the Roman Empire and the most famous emperors that served during the height of the empire period. We examined the monuments and structures of each of the emperors, and students had the opportunity to choose their favorite emperor and write a backstory on him, as well.
In the afternoon, students had a chance to continue building on their plans for their own Roman-style city. Some students are still mapping out the grid and streets, while others moved on to the government system and written laws. I love seeing their ideas come to life, and I can’t wait to see it all come together at the end of the week!
Some main takeaways from today: understanding the factors that led to the rise and, later, the fall of the Roman empire, applying the Roman senate structure to real-life scenarios, and critically evaluating some of the laws that were enforced in ancient Rome.
Some dinner table questions:
- What new Latin phrases did you learn that are still commonly used today?
- What is one government position in the Roman Republic (besides senator), and why is it important?
- Which emperor did you choose as your favorite, and why?
- What theme did you choose for your city? How is your project progressing?
I look forward to seeing the students tomorrow for an age-appropriate “gladiator” day!
Ms. Waxman