The Ancient Greek Civilization

We wrapped up Ancient China and ventured to a new continent of Europe. We are now learning about the Ancient Greek Civilization. In this unit students will be introduced to a new civilization whose contributions can be seen in many areas of our lives today. They will learn about the gods and goddesses of the ancient Greeks, the city-states of Sparta and Athens, and the philosophers Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. They will learn about the first Olympic Games held in honor of Zeus, the significance of the battles of Marathon and Thermopylae, and the conquests of Alexander the Great. Students will also learn about the Greek contribution of democracy and how those ideas are used today in many governments, including our own.

(The content in this unit is reinforced through the fictional narrative writing genre)

Students brought home on Wednesday a brief overview of our new unit. It includes ideas for students and family to discuss with continued conversation from our listening lessons in the classroom. However, the ideas are strictly suggestions and not homework to be completed and turned in. 

So far this week we have discussed the intro lesson: Ancient Greeks. Followed by two stories about Mount Olympus that encompass the twelve main gods and goddesses.

Students are creating booklets based on each Ancient Greek Civilization they hear. They record with detail what the critical information was from each lesson and what stuck with them from what they heard and what was discussed.They are able to used what they recorded as a quick recall and to share and discuss further with neighbors. We are also using these booklets to develop questioning and to create questions of what more to learn to extend our thinking. 

They are REALLY enjoying this unit so far! Very engaging!