Lesson plan: Return to the Colosseum

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Objectives

Students will:

• Determine the function and cultural value of the ancient Roman Colosseum.
• Construct a model of the Roman Colosseum to scale.

Standards

National Council for Social Studies
III. People, Places and Environments

High school students are able to apply geographic understanding across a broad range of fields, including the fine arts, sciences and humanities. Geographic concepts become central to learners' comprehension of global connections as they expand their knowledge of diverse cultures, both historical and contemporary.

Suggested time

One to two class periods

Materials

CNNfyi article, "Colosseum's comeback"
Internet access
Paper, cardboard, index cards, scissors, glue and rulers

Procedures

1. Ask the students: Which places do people visit to attend cultural or sporting events? Where are they usually located in a city? What are some examples of events that take place there? What percentage of a city's population attends these events?

2. Have students read the CNNfyi article "Colosseum's comeback," then ask:

• What was re-opened in July in Rome? When was the Colosseum built? How much did it cost to build the Colosseum? How much did it cost to restore the Colosseum? Why do you think the builders protected the original design?
• What was the purpose of the Colosseum when it was originally built? Why do you think it is significant that the Colosseum is filled now with cultural events? In your opinion, how would it be different to attend events today as compared with those originally occurring at the Colosseum?

Assessment

Critique the models of the Colosseum. As a group, discuss why it was important to maintain the original structure of the Colosseum. Also, discuss the cultural value of the Roman Colosseum.

Accommodations

Artistic: Have students find pictures and sketches of the original Colosseum and draw pictures of how it looked in ancient times. Students can also list the events that took place in A.D. 80 and present-day events at the Colosseum. Encourage them to create an artistic time line of the events.