aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	History
What age group	Year or Grade 7
What topic	Ancient Rome
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Lesson Starter: The Wonders of Ancient Rome

Objectives:

• Introduce students to the key features of Ancient Rome.
• Foster curiosity and engage students in learning about Roman history.

Hook: "A Day in Ancient Rome"

Activity Overview

Begin the lesson by immersing students in the world of Ancient Rome through a dynamic and interactive presentation titled "A Day in Ancient Rome." This activity aims to stimulate their imaginations and make history tangible.

Materials Needed

• Projector and screen (or whiteboard)
• Images of Ancient Rome (Colosseum, Roman Forum, aqueducts, etc.)
• Props (togas, laurel crowns, wooden tablets)
• Music (optional: Roman-style music or ambient city sounds)

Instructions

1. Visual Exploration:

   • Start by projecting a captivating image of the Colosseum and ask students, "What do you think this place was used for?" Gather a few responses.
   • Transition through different images (marketplaces, baths, and villas) while providing brief intriguing facts about each location.

2. Role Play Introduction:

   • Introduce the concept of role play. Explain that they will enjoy a brief immersive experience. Ask for a few volunteer students to dress in the provided toga (you can use simple cloth) or laurel crowns.
   • Describe a typical day in Ancient Rome: waking up in a domus, visiting the Forum, attending a gladiatorial game, etc. Use a narrative that makes the experience feel real and engaging.

3. Soundscape Element:

   • Play ambient sounds that might be heard in Ancient Rome: the hustle of the marketplace, the cheers from the Colosseum, or the sounds of animals in the countryside.
   • Encourage students to close their eyes and visualize where they are, asking them to think about the sights, sounds, and smells of ancient life.

4. Discussion:

   • After a few minutes, bring the students back to the present and ask them to share what they imagined. What stood out to them? What are they curious about?
   • Highlight their responses and connect them to what they will be learning in the lesson—government, daily life, engineering achievements, and warfare.

Conclusion

This engaging start will not only ignite students' interest in Ancient Rome but also provide a strong foundation for the lesson. Encourage students to think about how these ancient practices influence modern society, setting the stage for deeper discussions later in the class.

Note for Teachers

Make sure to tailor the visuals and props according to the resources available to you. Incorporating a taste of the culture and daily life can make the lesson feel more relevant and exciting for Year 7 students.