Lesson Plan: Roman Art and Architecture in Relation to Roman Religion

Subject: Social Sciences

Year Level: 13 (NCEA Level 3)

Duration: 360 Minutes

Class Size: 34 Students

Curriculum Area:

This lesson plan aligns with the New Zealand Curriculum for Social Sciences. It addresses the strands of Understanding about the Societies and Cultures, and Continuity and Change. Specifically, this plan is designed for Level 8 as described in the curriculum New Zealand Curriculum Online - Social Sciences.

Learning Objectives:

1. Students will analyse and evaluate the influence of Roman religion on Roman art and architecture.
2. Students will identify specific examples of Roman art and architecture that depict Roman religious practices and deities.
3. Students will develop skills in critical thinking and expression by discussing and presenting their findings.

Resources Needed:

• PowerPoint presentations on Roman art and religion
• Access to online databases and digital libraries like JSTOR or Google Scholar for scholarly articles
• Images and videos of Roman art and architecture (appropriate licenses checked)
• Chart paper and markers for group work
• Projector and screen for presentations

Lesson Breakdown:

Introduction (30 minutes)

• Overview presentation (15 minutes): Begin with a brief introduction using a PowerPoint to provide an overview of Roman religion's impact on art and architecture.
• Discussion (15 minutes): What do students already know about Roman art? Any preconceptions or questions?

Part 1: Exploring Roman Religious Art (90 minutes)

• Research Activity (45 minutes): In groups, students use assigned online resources to find examples of Roman art that depict religious themes (statues, frescoes, mosaics). Each group focuses on one type of art.
• Group Presentations (45 minutes): Each group presents their findings, showcasing different art forms and explaining the religious significance depicted in each art piece.

Part 2: Examining Roman Religious Architecture (90 minutes)

• Video Viewing (30 minutes): Watch a documentary segment on Roman architecture focused on religious buildings such as temples and basilicas.
• Research and Discussion (60 minutes): Students research specific Roman temples and their architectural features related to religious functions. Discuss how architecture facilitated religious practices.

Part 3: Comparative Analysis and Contemporary Connections (120 minutes)

• Comparative Analysis (60 minutes): Students compare Roman religious art and architecture to another ancient civilization’s approach to religious expression in art and architecture. Focus on similarities and differences.
• Contemporary Connections (30 minutes): Discuss in groups how remnants of Roman religious influences are observed in modern society and architecture. Prepare a short presentation on findings.
• Class Presentation and Debate (30 minutes): Groups present their contemporary connections and debate on the relevance and influence of ancient Roman practices in modern times.

Conclusion (30 minutes)

• Reflection (15 minutes): Students write a short reflection on what they learned about the role of religion in shaping Roman art and architecture.
• Wrap-Up Q&A (15 minutes): Open the floor for any last questions and offer additional resources for further study.

Assessment:

• Presentation and Group Activity Evaluation: Assess group presentations on clarity, research depth, and engagement with the class.
• Individual Reflections: Evaluate the reflections based on insightfulness and connection of ideas presented in class.

Extension Activities:

• Encourage students to visit a local museum with Roman artefacts or organise a virtual tour of the Roman sections of international museums.
• Assign a project where students can create their own art piece inspired by Roman religious art.

This lesson plan offers Year 13 students a comprehensive look at the influence of religion on Roman culture through its art and architecture, promoting both analytical thinking and creative engagement with historical content.