Objective

By the end of this lesson, the Year 7 student will be able to understand the influence of the Roman Empire on health and hygiene practices during that time period.

Materials and Prep

• Pen and paper
• Access to a computer or library resources for research
• Prior knowledge of the Roman Empire

Activities

1. Research: Ask the student to find information about the health and hygiene practices of the Roman Empire. They can use books, online resources, or even visit a local library for more information. Encourage them to take notes and write down key points.

2. Create a Comparison Chart: Instruct the student to create a chart comparing the health and hygiene practices of the Roman Empire with those of the present day in the United Kingdom. They should include categories such as bathing, sanitation, medical treatments, and diet. This will help them understand the differences and similarities between the two time periods.

3. Discussion: Have a conversation with the student about their findings. Ask them questions about why certain practices were important during the Roman Empire and how they compare to modern practices. Encourage critical thinking and analysis.

4. Reflection: Ask the student to write a short reflection on what they have learned about the influence of the Roman Empire on health and hygiene practices. They should include their thoughts on the similarities and differences between the two time periods and any insights they gained from the research.

United Kingdom: Year 7 Talking Points

• "During the Roman Empire, public baths were an important part of daily life. People would gather to socialize, relax, and clean themselves."
• "Sanitation was also a significant concern for the Romans. They built complex sewer systems to manage waste and prevent diseases."
• "Roman doctors used a variety of medical treatments, including herbal remedies and surgical procedures. However, their understanding of medicine was limited compared to modern standards."
• "The Roman diet consisted of a wide range of foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and meats. However, the quality of the food varied depending on social status."
• "By comparing the health and hygiene practices of the Roman Empire with those of the present day in the United Kingdom, we can gain a better understanding of how societies have evolved over time."