A Ladybird Book: The Romans
#3 of 18 in Ladybird tales Series
What’s inside...
This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the fascinating history of ancient Rome, covering its rise, fall, and lasting impact on the world. The Roman civilization began in 753 BC and over the course of 1,000 years, it formed an empire that forever left its mark on history. From the roads we travel on to the languages we speak, many aspects of our everyday lives owe to the Romans. The book offers a simple and accessible introduction to the history and legacies of this remarkable civilization. It is packed with amazing facts that transport children back in time, exploring the founding of Rome, the dramatic rise and fall of the Roman Empire, and daily Roman life, including sports, entertainment, baths, and banquets.
Discussion points
What did you find most interesting about how the Romans lived?
How do you think Roman inventions and ideas have influenced our world today?
If you could meet a Roman, what would you ask them and why?
How do the roles of people in Roman society compare to those in our society?
What can we learn from the rise and fall of the Roman Empire?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to summarize the book in their own words to gauge their understanding and spark interest.
Use the illustrations and historical facts as visual prompts to delve deeper into discussions about the Roman lifestyle and historical events.
Connect the historical content to present-day scenarios or inventions to make the conversation relevant and engaging.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in ancient Rome, asking what role they would choose and why, to make the discussion more immersive.
After discussing, suggest creating a simple project together, like building a model of a Roman building using craft materials, to extend learning beyond the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding History and Civilization
Explanation: The book educates children about the ancient Roman civilization, covering their daily life, culture, and contributions to the modern world.
Real-World Application: This historical insight can foster a deeper appreciation for history and encourage respect for different cultures in a child’s everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of Leadership and Governance
Explanation: The book details the governance system of the Romans, highlighting the role of leaders and senators.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of good leadership and governance, inspiring them to participate in student council or similar activities at school.
Example Lesson: Innovation and Creativity
Explanation: The narrative showcases Roman innovations and architectural achievements like aqueducts and roads.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to engage in creative problem-solving and understand the importance of innovation in society.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The text explains how Romans worked together to build their empire, from soldiers in the army to citizens building cities.
Real-World Application: Emphasizes the importance of teamwork in achieving common goals, which can be applied in group projects and team sports.