Weaving the Thread
of History
by Nathan Piccini
Classics as a Cross-Curricular Core
in the Middle School
Austin Preparatory School
Three intercurricular themes between Latin
and Social Studies.
1. Art and Architecture
This theme is a constant in a social studies
classroom and could be used as an essential part of a classical
language curriculum. One such example uses the Cambridge Latin
text, which includes a chapter on the basilica.
Latin class: the teacher could discuss the role of the law
courts in Roman cities and the architecture of the Roman basilica.
This discussion could lead to elements of classical architecture,
the conversion of the Roman basilica into Christian churches
and the evolution of classical architecture into the Middle Ages.
History class:
The teacher could discuss details
of Roman law from the Twelve Tables to the laws surrounding the
social war. This could be expanded to a discussion of criminal
punishments in Rome (perhaps an aside- showing of Spartacus in
the stone quarries).
Extension Activity: Students could trace the evolution of architecture
from Greek Roots to Romanesque problems in the middle age, culminating
with the innovations Gothic construction in the high middle ages.
This can be done through the construction of models, multimedia
presentations, or portfolios. Students should include examples
of classical architecture in the modern world.
2. Slavery
The theme of slavery applies to any history
course from the ancient world to modern American studies and
its impact on today's African-American community.
Latin Teacher: The stories in Cambridge Latin texts teach the
basic relationships between slaves, masters and freedmen.
History Teacher: The teacher can discuss the origins of slavery
from Egypt to the trans-Atlantic Slave Trade. How does Roman
slavery differ from other societies? What similarities?
Extension Activity: Students trace the slave trade routes of the ancient
world. Have students write a narrative of a slave auction. If
Latin students have the practice, this could be done in Latin.
3. Criticism and appreciation of
primary sources and evidence
One of the goals of the Massachusetts Frameworks
for Teaching Social Studies includes this theme as an essential
building block of the middle school and high school education.
Latin Teacher: Discussion of the destruction and excavation of
Pompeii. Discuss what physical evidence remained to prove elements
of city life in ancient Pompeii.
History Teacher: Teacher could have the students read selections
of Livy's Founding of the City, focusing on the abduction of
the Sabine Women. This could lead to a discussion of criticism
of good historical writing, importance of footnoting, and comparisons
to primary sources for the destruction of Pompeii.
Extension Activity: Have students select an event from history books
or Latin books. They should write a newspaper interview with
a witness of this selected event. More talented students could
do this in Latin.
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