Introduction to Ancient Roman Gladiators Lesson

Learning objectives

In this lesson, students will examine the world of Roman gladiators, including who these fighters were, how they were trained, and the different types of combat they engaged in across the arenas of ancient Rome. They will explore how the economics of gladiatorial ownership influenced the treatment of fighters and the outcomes of combat, while also learning about the cultural significance of these events as one of the most popular forms of entertainment in the Roman world. Students will have the opportunity to achieve this through choosing their own method of learning, from reading, source analysis, research, and watching options, as well as the chance to engage in extension activities. This lesson includes a self-marking quiz for students to demonstrate their learning.

How would you like to learn?

Option 1: Readings


Step 1: Download a copy of the reading questions worksheet below:

Download
Gladiators Reading Questions.docx
Microsoft Word Document 27.6 KB

Step 2: Answer the set questions by reading the following web page:


Option 2: Source analysis


Step 1: Download a copy of the source analysis worksheet below: 

Download
Gladiators Source Analysis Worksheet.doc
Microsoft Word Document 85.1 KB

Step 2: Answer the set questions by reading the sources on the following web page: 


Option 3: Internet research


Download a copy of the research worksheet and use the internet to complete the tables:

Download
Gladiators Research.docx
Microsoft Word Document 22.7 KB

Option 4: Watch video


Step 1: Download a copy of the viewing questions worksheet below:

Download
Gladiators Viewing Questions.docx
Microsoft Word Document 21.5 KB

Step 2: Answer the set questions by watching the following video:

Watch on YouTube


Test your learning



Extension activities



Resources for subscribers