Roman Emperors / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to identify and describe key Roman Emperors and their contributions to the Roman Empire.

Materials and Prep

  • Notebook or paper
  • Pencil or pen
  • Access to a library or reliable internet for research
  • Prior knowledge of basic Roman history

Activities

  1. Research and create a timeline:

    Ask the student to research different Roman Emperors and create a timeline showcasing their reigns. They can draw or write the names of the emperors along with important events that occurred during their rule.

  2. Design a trading card:

    Have the student design a trading card for their favorite Roman Emperor. They can include a picture or drawing of the emperor, their name, important accomplishments, and interesting facts.

  3. Create a newspaper article:

    Ask the student to imagine they are a journalist during the time of a famous Roman Emperor. They can write a newspaper article reporting on a significant event or achievement during that emperor's rule. Encourage them to include quotes and details to make it engaging.

Talking Points

  • Julius Caesar: "Julius Caesar was a Roman general and statesman who played a critical role in the events that led to the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire. He was known for his military conquests and reforms in Rome."

  • Augustus: "Augustus, also known as Octavian, was the first Roman Emperor. He brought about a period of relative peace and stability known as the Pax Romana. Augustus established many reforms and was a patron of the arts and literature."

  • Nero: "Nero was a notorious Roman Emperor known for his extravagant lifestyle and tyrannical rule. He is infamously remembered for persecuting Christians and his involvement in the Great Fire of Rome."

  • Hadrian: "Hadrian was a Roman Emperor known for his extensive travels and architectural achievements. He is best known for building Hadrian's Wall in Britain and the Pantheon in Rome."

  • Constantine the Great: "Constantine the Great was a Roman Emperor who played a significant role in the rise of Christianity. He issued the Edict of Milan, which granted religious tolerance to Christians, and later became the first Roman Emperor to convert to Christianity himself."