Step into Mrs. Washington’s third-grade classroom, and you might think you’ve traveled back in time to ancient Rome. Over the course of CKLA Grade 3 Unit 4: The Ancient Roman Civilization, her students transformed from curious learners into budding Roman historians, architects, and even toga-clad citizens. Through this vibrant unit, these students didn’t just study history—they lived it!
The CKLA curriculum whisked students on a grand tour of ancient Rome, introducing them to the intricacies of Roman culture. They explored religion, tasted (well, imagined tasting) Roman food, and stepped into the sandals of students their age learning in ancient Roman schools. Social class structures were also brought to life—students marveled at the contrasting lives of patricians and plebeians, and even discussed the lives of enslaved people in Roman society.
As part of their learning, they delved into Roman geography and key historical events, from the Punic Wars to the rise and fall of the Roman Empire. Stories of legendary figures like Julius Caesar and Augustus Caesar left students wide-eyed, while the tales of Rome’s stunning engineering feats—roads, aqueducts, and monumental buildings—made history feel closer than ever.
But the highlight of the unit? A live Skype a Scientist session with Alexa Kelly, an archaeologist who brings history to life through her work at Campbell University’s School of Osteopathic Medicine. Ms. Kelly shared her experiences digging up ancient artifacts and the thrill of uncovering pieces of civilizations long gone.
Students were brimming with excitement as they asked questions about Roman artifacts, ancient excavation techniques, and what it’s like to uncover history buried beneath our feet. It was like having their very own Roman historian on speed dial!
To wrap up their learning, students participated in the unforgettable “Build Rome in a Day” project. Armed with biodegradable packing peanuts (talk about eco-friendly Roman engineering!) and a lot of creativity, they constructed mini Roman-inspired structures. There were aqueducts, miniature temples, and even a scaled-down version of the Colosseum that sparked applause from classmates.
On the big presentation day, students donned handmade togas, turning the classroom into a lively Roman forum. In a burst of energy and fun, they also moved to the gym for some “Roman games,” reimagining gladiatorial combat and chariot races with a modern, kid-friendly twist. The laughter, cheers, and toga-clad antics showed just how much they had absorbed and embraced the spirit of the era.
Through CKLA’s engaging curriculum, Mrs. Washington’s students gained not just knowledge but a true appreciation for the influence of ancient Rome on our lives today. From the architecture of modern government buildings to the very roots of our democracy, they connected the dots between the past and the present. This unit laid the foundation for future learning about the Roman Republic, legendary leaders, and Rome’s enduring legacy.
One student summed it up best, saying, “Building Rome in a day was hard, but I think we did a pretty good job! I’d totally live in our mini Rome—just without the gladiator fights!”
Thanks to the CKLA curriculum, Mrs. Washington’s creative flair, and the Skype a Scientist program, history in this third-grade class wasn’t just studied—it was celebrated, constructed, and absolutely unforgettable.
Now that’s how you bring ancient Rome to life!