Social Structure Analysis

Lesson Overview

Duration

60 minutes

Class Size

20 students

Curriculum Area

Senior Secondary Australian Curriculum: Humanities and Social Sciences - History (ACHAH375)

Topic

The social structure in Pompeii and Herculaneum: men, women, freedmen, slaves.

Lesson Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will:

1. Understand the social hierarchy in Pompeii and Herculaneum.
2. Analyse the roles and statuses of men, women, freedmen, and slaves.
3. Evaluate primary and secondary sources to gain insights into the daily lives of these groups.
4. Develop the ability to critically assess historical evidence and its reliability.

Materials Required

• Whiteboard and markers
• Projector and laptop
• Handouts of primary and secondary source excerpts
• Worksheet with analysis questions
• Coloured pens for group activities

Lesson Plan

Introduction (10 minutes)

1. Welcome and Roll Call (2 minutes): Greet students, take attendance, and introduce the topic.

   • “Good morning, everyone! Today we’ll explore the fascinating social structure of ancient Pompeii and Herculaneum.”

2. Hook Activity (8 minutes): Quick brainstorming activity.

   • Ask students to list what they already know about social classes in ancient societies.
   • Write their responses on the whiteboard.
   • Briefly discuss the different social classes mentioned and transition to the detailed exploration of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Direct Instruction (15 minutes)

1. Presentation (15 minutes): Use a slideshow to present key information about the social structure in Pompeii and Herculaneum.
   • Slides Breakdown:
     • Slide 1-2: Overview of Pompeii and Herculaneum, geographical and historical context.
     • Slide 3: Social hierarchy overview (Patricians, Plebeians, Freedmen, Slaves).
     • Slide 4-5: Roles and status of men.
     • Slide 6-7: Roles and status of women.
     • Slide 8: Freedmen (liberti), their lives and contributions.
     • Slide 9: Slaves: their roles, treatment, and living conditions.
     • Slide 10: The impact of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius on different social classes.

Group Activity (20 minutes)

1. Source Analysis (5 minutes): Distribute handouts containing primary (e.g., inscriptions, graffiti) and secondary sources (e.g., excerpts from academic papers).

   • Instruct students to form groups of four.
   • Each group is assigned a social class (men, women, freedmen, slaves) to focus on.

2. Group Discussion (15 minutes):

   • Task: Each group will analyse their sources and answer the provided questions on their worksheets.
   • Questions:
     • What roles and responsibilities did this social group have?
     • What rights and limitations did they experience?
     • How did their status influence their daily life?
     • How reliable and informative are the sources?
   • Encourage each group to use coloured pens to highlight key points and make notes on the provided worksheet.

Class Discussion and Reflection (10 minutes)

1. Class Presentation (8 minutes):

   • Each group shares their findings with the class.
   • Encourage students to ask questions and discuss the different social perspectives.

2. Reflection (2 minutes):

   • Ask students to reflect on why understanding the social structure of ancient societies is important for studying history.
   • Invite a few students to share their thoughts.

Conclusion (5 minutes)

1. Summary (3 minutes): Summarise the key points discussed during the lesson.

   • Highlight the differences and similarities between the social structures of men, women, freedmen, and slaves in Pompeii and Herculaneum.

2. Homework Assignment (2 minutes):

   • Students are to write a short essay (300-400 words) on how the social structure in Pompeii and Herculaneum reflects the broader Roman societal norms.

   Essay Prompt: "Discuss how the lives of men, women, freedmen, and slaves in Pompeii and Herculaneum provide insights into the broader Roman social order. Use specific examples from class readings and discussions."

   • Provide a rubric for the essay.

Assessment

• Participation in group discussions and class presentations.
• Completion and quality of the source analysis worksheet.
• Reflective contributions during class discussion.
• Submission and evaluation of the homework essay.

Differentiation

• Provide additional support and resources for students who may need extra help in analysing sources.
• Challenge advanced students with supplementary primary sources for deeper analysis.

Wrap-Up

• Ensure all students understand the key points discussed.
• Answer any remaining questions and clarify any doubts.
• Revise the next steps and expectations for the homework assignment.

Teacher Reflection

• Note students' engagement levels and understanding of the topic.
• Reflect on the effectiveness of group activities and discussions.
• Adjust future lessons based on observed learning needs and outcomes.

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By emphasising a structured yet interactive approach to learning, this lesson plan not only aligns with Australian educational standards but also engages students in a meaningful exploration of ancient social structures.