The Ancient Romans (History Starts Here)
#1 in History Starts Here Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
Introduces the history, culture, and people of ancient Rome and examines its many contributions to Western society. Written by Anita Ganeri.
Discussion points
What are some differences and similarities between how we live today and how ancient Romans lived?
Can you imagine what a day in the life of an ancient Roman child might have been like? What would you do?
Why do you think the Romans built such large structures, like the Colosseum?
How did the inventions and ideas of the Romans influence the world we live in today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to visualize the ancient Roman world by asking them to draw a scene described in the book.
Connect the book's content with today's world by discussing current inventions or structures that might have been inspired by Roman innovations.
After reading the book, watch a kid-friendly documentary or video about ancient Rome to reinforce what they've learned and add visual context.
Ask your child to pick their favorite Roman character or story from the book and explain why they made that choice, fostering deeper emotional connections to the material.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the Importance of Community
Explanation: Through exploring the societal structure of Ancient Rome, children learn about the roles and responsibilities of different community members and how they contributed to the functioning of society.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing the importance of teamwork and cooperation in their own community, such as at school or during group activities.
Example Lesson: Value of Leadership and Governance
Explanation: The book discusses the governance system of the Roman Republic and Empire, illustrating the significance of leadership and laws in maintaining order and prosperity.
Real-World Application: This lesson translates into understanding the role of rules and authority figures in their everyday life, highlighting the benefits of following rules and respecting leaders.
Example Lesson: Historical Influence on Modern Life
Explanation: By learning about various Roman innovations and cultural aspects, children see how ancient history continues to influence our modern world, including language, architecture, and governmental systems.
Real-World Application: Children can become more culturally aware and appreciative of the history behind everyday conveniences and societal structures.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: The book covers various challenges faced by the Roman civilization, including wars and political conflicts, showcasing how resilience led to recovery and growth.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to develop resilience in the face of personal challenges, understanding that overcoming difficulties is a part of growth.