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Subject

English Language Arts (2005)

Description

The lesson plan includes a PowerPoint presentation about the characteristics of the Greek city-states, Athens and Sparta. In addition, it offers a chart and Venn diagram to compare and contrast the city-states.

Objectives

Students will:

compare and contrast the city-states, Athens and Sparta, using a Venn diagram.

compose an essay including the similarities and differences between the city-states, Athens and Sparta.

Duration

Approximately 3 days; 46 minute periods.

Materials

Computer, Projector, PowerPoint Presentation, Chart, Venn Diagram, Compare and Contrast Step-by-Step Worksheet and Rubric.

Procedures

Review : Ask the students to name the two major peninsulas of Greece. (Answer: Attica, Peloponnesus.) The instructor will ask the following questions:

1. Which one contains fertile land? (Attica)
2. What major crops does Greece export? (olive oil, grapes)
3. Why is travel so difficult in Greece? (mountains, hilly, rocky)

In addition, the class will be asked background information about topics related to architecture, drama, politics, and philosophy.

Introduction : The students will be informed that they will be comparing and contrasting the city-states, Athens and Sparta. Individual students will be asked to provide different words for compare and contrast. (I.e similar or different.) All students will be told that they will be recording information about each city-state while viewing a PowerPoint presentation.

Development : Each student will receive a chart to complete while the instructor is presenting the lesson. The teacher will read through the chart with the class. The students will be required to answer questions orally as the lesson progresses. Encourage the students to distinguish between the life of the Greeks and their own lives. The PowerPoint presentation, consisting of information about language, religion, geography, and culture in Athens and Sparta, will be presented. It is suggested that the teacher expand upon information orally in order to provide students with a more in depth grasp of the material.

Independent Practice : Students will complete a Venn diagram in pairs. The chart filled in throughout the lesson should be used to provide information in order to complete the Venn diagram. After the pairs complete the diagram, individuals could also share their answers by writing on a SMART Board. (if available)

Closure : Have the students orally compare and contrast Athens and Sparta. The teacher will pair students up to begin the Venn diagram.

Evaluation : The students will create an essay comparing and contrasting Athens and Sparta. In addition, it is suggested that the instructor model and use the "Compare and Contrast Step-by-Step" worksheet. The template is a generic guide to help students with the writing process. The length of time spent writing the essay depends upon the level of the students.

Additional Discussion Questions:

1. Why do you think the overall philosophy of both city-states is so different?
2. How could the Spartan society have existed without the slaves?
3. Athens and Sparta engaged in a War from 431 BC – 404 BC. Which city-state was victorious? Why?
4. In which city-state would you rather live in? Why?

Click Below for Lesson Components :

Athens vs. Sparta PowerPoint

Athens vs. Sparta Chart

Athens vs. Sparta Chart Key

Venn Diagram

Assessment

Click Below:

Compare and Contrast Rubric

Compare and Contrast Step by Step

Related Academic Standards

New York State

6R7 Compare and contrast how different formats, including print and digital media, contribute to the understanding of a subject. (RI&RL)

6W1f Maintain a style and tone appropriate to the writing task.

6W5 Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research. Apply grade 6 Reading standards to both literary and informational text, where applicable.

6W7 Gather relevant information from multiple sources; assess the credibility of each source; quote or paraphrase the data and conclusions of others; avoid plagiarism and provide basic bibliographic information for sources.

RI.6.7 Integrate information presented in different media or formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively) as well as in words to develop a coherent understanding of a topic or issue.

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