7th Grade  Project 4 weeks

"Rome's Fall: A Sporting Saga"

Colley, K
7.C.CP.1
7.E.IC.2
Critical Thinker
Productive Collaborator
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Purpose

This project aims to deepen students' understanding of historical and contemporary dynamics by drawing parallels between the fall of the Roman Empire and sports dynasties. Through hands-on research, collaboration, and creative expression, students will critically analyze political institutions and resource allocation in both contexts. By engaging with community partners and presenting their findings, students will develop skills in critical thinking and productive collaboration, fostering a deeper understanding of historical patterns and their relevance to modern society.

Learning goals

Students will critically analyze the rise and fall of the Roman Empire and compare it to sports dynasties, identifying key factors that lead to the success and decline of both. They will develop skills in research, collaboration, and presentation, using evidence to create informed comparisons and draw parallels. Through engaging with community partners and participating in the 'Dynasty Day' event, students will enhance their ability to communicate their findings and insights effectively.

Standards
  • [Kentucky] 7.C.CP.1 - Compare political institutions and their impacts on people in empires between 600-1600.
  • [Kentucky] 7.E.IC.2 - Analyze the impact of growth and expansion on the allocation of resources and economic incentives.
Competencies
  • Critical Thinker - Thinks deeply and makes informed decisions to create solutions or new understanding supported by relevant and reliable evidence.
  • Productive Collaborator - Engages with others to achieve a common goal through building positive relationships, actively listening, showing empathy, and making individual contributions to a larger group.

Products

Students will create an interactive timeline that visually connects significant events in the Roman Empire with key moments in sports dynasties, using digital tools to enhance interactivity. They will also develop multimedia presentations that explore these parallels, incorporating video clips, images, and audio commentary. Additionally, students will prepare live reenactments of historical events and sports moments, engaging the audience in their findings during the 'Dynasty Day' exhibition.

Launch

Kick off the project with a "Dynasty Debate" where students are divided into teams to research and present arguments on whether the Roman Empire or a selected sports dynasty had a greater impact on its respective world. Invite a local sports journalist to moderate the debate and provide insights into the dynamics of sports dynasties. This engaging activity will spark curiosity and set the stage for deeper exploration of the project's essential question.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Dynasty Day' event, transforming their classroom into an interactive museum where they present their projects comparing the Roman Empire to sports dynasties. They will create engaging exhibits featuring timelines, multimedia presentations, and live reenactments that highlight the parallels and differences between historical and sports dynasties. Community members, including a sports journalist, will be invited to engage with students, ask questions, and provide feedback on their findings and presentations. This event will serve as a platform for students to showcase their critical thinking and collaborative skills, as well as their understanding of historical and contemporary dynamics.