Students at Churchville-Chili Middle School recently did more than simply learn about the aqueduct, one of the marvels of ancient Rome. They imagined themselves as Roman engineers tasked with building one. Their challenge was to construct an efficient, cost-effective system of tunnels, trenches, pipes and bridges to move water across long distances and into cities.
This exercise complemented a unit on world history and classical civilizations, part of the NYS-standards sixth-grade social studies curriculum. “It can be difficult for students to see connections between history and contemporary society,” said Enrichment Specialist Stephanie Ricci. “Activities like this put them in the shoes of people in the past. They have to consider the same things, ask the same questions and follow the same processes as the Romans did.”
“The hands-on activity gave students a deeper understanding and respect for the past,” said Ricci. “It helped them see the enduring contributions these ancient people made that link history with their own lives today.”